Blake De Leon

It’s been three weeks now here in Romania, with three weeks left before we head back to the United States. I’ve heard many stories since I’ve been here. Mostly sad and shocking ones. Some that are very hard to understand and some that were complete miracles. I’ve learned the Ukrainian people are very humble, strong and resilient. I don’t know how but everyday I’m  surprised of the smiles they always have.

Still following the news from back home I’ve seen gun violence, inflation, social and political conflicts have again flooded the media in America. It was only a matter of time before the Russian invasion in Ukraine would be overshadowed by something else. We knew it was going to happen. That It would become just some on going conflict 1000’s of miles from us. Now, most American’s think, “Well what can we even do? They are there, and I’m here” And I don’t blame them because often I find myself thinking the same. It’s very difficult because there isn’t very many answers. There is a sense of hopelessness that runs deep for answers within this conflict.

But I know, our God is a God of Hope. We have it in Christ alone. Though we believe in Christ and become saved it doesn’t mean our suffering ends while here on earth. That life will be perfect and beautiful. That all our pain goes away like that. Life can still be very hard. Many horrible things have happened to me even after becoming saved. Many Christian’s can testify and say it is the same for them. But, the God of Hope is also the God who Redeem’s. Like He has done for me I pray one day, God may turn all the horrible things that have happened to them, into something good. That they may come back stronger. More resilient. Motivated. Encouraged. Have new purposes and hope in the future. My hope is that one day those hurt by this conflict may come to know all these things on a personal level. That Jesus redeems. Jesus is our hope. Jesus is our Salvation.

Still Lord, I pray that You may reveal Yourself to those hurting because of this conflict. Reveal yourself in a way that who ever it is too may know that it is You the Lord. It is You who open the eyes of the blind. Who finds the lost. Who heals the sick. Who forgives the shameful. Who humbles the prideful. Who punishes the wicked. You are God. Show me the way you want me to go. I want to continue to be of use for You while I am. I need your Spirit’s guidance. Your wisdom and decernment. Your love and grace. I want to finish the race strong. Father, I need You. You are my hope.