Those are some of the emotions that we’ve had after visiting the people that live in frozen filth in the outskirts of town. The teams here in Oradea, Romania have had it impressed upon our heart to do something about the poverty we’ve seen here. I haven’t yet blogged about our time in the dumps, because we’ve all been processing what in the world we can do. The above video, made by Amanda Howard, and is our first step. So teams Lionheart, Cherished Flame, and Family Force 6 are asking you to join in our efforts to petition the Lord to do something bigger than us here in Oradea.
People living in the freezing cold, here in Oradea.
“Many people believe that we must be out in the world in order to have a moving global impact. This could not be further from the truth. One of the main reasons many of us came on The World Race was to serve God’s people and spread His love around the world. People often ask why I feel like I have to travel around the world to do such things. The truth is, I don’t. However, I feel called to reach the neglected parts of the Nations that are crying out for God’s love and mercy, but I don’t doubt that we need just as much help in the U.S.” – Amanda Howard
As has happened many times in the past five months, our hearts have been shattered by the people we have met.
We were given the opportunity to visit the Dump here in Romania. We were able to provide some food for our friends there, and will be giving away all our warm clothes to them when we leave for Africa. Yes, this is awesome, but we are so frustrated that we cannot do more. This is not the first time our hearts have been broken and frustrated out of compassion, and I can guarantee that it will not be the last. These people hunt for garbage. They don’t have food. They don’t have warmth. They are rejected everywhere they go. They don’t have Jesus.
Our teams here spent a few days frustrated and processing. Wishing we could provide homes and food and warmth and clothing and hope and future for all these people. The reality is, in our next two weeks here, we can’t. But the bottom line is, we are NOT satisfied to sit by and watch the world continue on in hopeless despair and destruction.
The good news is that we are not alone in doing such things. The Lord calls us to take action, but He also calls us to present ALL of our requests to Him. Even if we could, as humans, end global poverty, where would that leave us? People may no longer be hungry, but would they truly be receiving a lasting impact? Would they still look to their Savior to provide? In praying for the people of the Nations, we recognize that our actions, although good and helpful, may not be sufficient. We serve a God that is MIGHTY, POWERFUL, and COMPASSIONATE! Where we cannot reach, He can move mountains!
These people are not just another statistic that can be read on the UNICEF website. They are God’s children. Each and every one of them is a unique, beautiful, and blessed individual, so we’re asking you toJOIN US in taking a stand and making a difference in their lives.
Frozen laundry.
This Sunday (Saturday for you all in the U.S.), we will be fasting from various things (food, internet, etc.), and we will be sleeping in our tents in the field to spend a night in solitude and prayer and freezing cold, fighting for those in need all around the world. We encourage you to fast with us in remembrance of those in need. This is not a day/night to spend in misery or guilt, but to remember God’s promises for His children, and to ask Him to be present here in Romania, the United States, Canada, Africa, Asia, and all parts of the world! If our loving God can move mountains, then let’s ask Him to do it!
P.S. I want to be clear that we don’t think just because we sleep in a freezing cold field for a day, we’ve “done our part” and can now live in opulence, forgetting about the plight of the world around us. This is not about checking off that we “tried to identify” with sleeping in the cold and not eating. This is about ridding ourselves of some of the comfort we have been blessed with this month, in order to ask the Lord to bring comfort to these people. To show Him we’re serious about this prayer. To bring attention to the situation here in Oradea, Romania. Isaiah 58 is very clear that a simple day of fasting and thinking that you’ve pleased the Lord is not what actually pleases Him. He wants a lifestyle fast. One where you give up your life for others. As World Racers, it’s tempting sometimes to believe we’ve already done that and have no further to go. But we want to do everything in our power to make a change in this world. I don’t know what will come of this. I know the Lord is at work in all our hearts. Feel free to comment if there’s any feasible way you’d love to join in our efforts to help the situation here in Oradea. And join us in fasting 🙂
HOPE.
JOY.
GOD’S PROMISES.
FUTURE.
Our God is faithful. And He will provide for these people. And we can all make a global change in this world through prayer.
8 responses to “Frozen”
We will begin with men’s prayer meeting 7am this morning. I believe it’s about 2pm there. Thank you for being our eyes and ears in that place that is cold in more ways than one. However short a time you are there, and whatever is done or left behind, the true impact is in your hearts, which you will be able to bring home and then pass on to future ministers and generations. Little is much in the hands of the Lord. He loves you (and them) not because of your righteousness or your accomplishments, but because of His. He will produce the fruit in His time. You will have the privilege occasionally to reap it, but often you will be called to simply sow seeds and be a witness. Love you! Dad
We will begin with men’s prayer meeting 7am this morning. I believe it’s about 2pm there. Thank you for being our eyes and ears in that place that is cold in more ways than one. However short a time you are there, and whatever is done or left behind, the true impact is in your hearts, which you will be able to bring home and then pass on to future ministers and generations. Little is much in the hands of the Lord. He loves you (and them) not because of your righteousness or your accomplishments, but because of His. He will produce the fruit in His time. You will have the privilege occasionally to reap it, but often you will be called to simply sow seeds and be a witness. I know it’s nothing, but I will at lest fast from TV and internet this Sunday, and to the extent possible (being Diabetic), less food. Love you! Dad
Dan 10:12 Then said he unto me, Fear not, Daniel: for from the first day that thou didst set thine heart to understand, and to chasten thyself before thy God, thy words were heard, and I am come for thy words.
I agree with your dad, “not because of your righteousness or your accomplishments, but because of His”. And even if we do not see the results of our prayers, it does not mean that the LORD has not heard and that he is not actively at work. We know the sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, he wilt not despise these.
Joining in with you in prayer today.
Steph, Your video touched my heart. I will join you on Sunday. I love you
Cyndy
Steph, thank you for going where God has called you–and for blogging about it. As I’ve read your blog, God has been breaking my heart & breaking my complacency for the need that is HERE–in my family, at PBU, in Kensington. During my last semester of classes, when I could easily have gotten isolated & mired down in work and independence, God has refused to let me forget the love that He calls His people to–and you & your team have been a big part of that. Thank you for reminding me that love means calling one another into greatness, that community is an essential part of God’s calling on our lives, and that God’s love is so strong. I’m praying for you & your team so much.
Love, Marissa
Thanks you for showing us what we are NOT comfortable seeing. I have seen hungry children in Zimbabwe, and was able to help, BUT they were warm. I cannot imagine really going through winter never feeling warm, feeling chilled to the bone all the time. Thank you for being Jesus’ hands and feet where we cannot go and teaching us to look, think about and pray for those in the world and here. We must fight the injustice and the vast gap between the rich and the poor, and the greed that goes along with it where ever and however we can, for by that we reap the GREAT reward and hear “Well done, my good and faithful servant.” I don’t EVER want to ask, “Lord, when were you…………….?”
Love, Susan
Dear Father, guide these men and women to minister Your love in the way You have prepared in advance. Show them clearly Your unique purpose for them there. Bless those they minister to … may they see Your face. In our Lord Jesus. AMEN
Steph:
I’m sorry I’m reading this so late (Saturday 10:40 p.m. here). It’s already 5:40 a.m. there, and I’m not sure if your fasting and freezing are almost over, or just beginning. But, I’m stopping to pray right now:
Dear Lord, I pray your hand of protection to be over Stephanie and the teams in Romania, and all those who are out in the cold and hungry tonight. I pray that they will put their trust in You as their Shield and Protector (Proverbs 30:5). Protect them physically from the cold and from any weakness or illness they may suffer from not eating. Protect them from any acts of violence by others or any plans of evil. I pray that you would surround them with your angels to keep watch over them. Help them to hear Your voice leading them, and help them to obey You so that they will always be in Your will. I pray that You, Lord, will keep your eyes on them and that they will not take their eyes off You. Help them to learn to dwell in Your shadow and under Your umbrella of protection (Psalm 91:1). I pray that You will be their refuge and strength and their very present help in trouble and that no weapon formed against them will prosper. Please be merciful, oh Lord, and give them safety in the shadow of Your wings. I pray that as they make their effort to show you they are serious in their prayers to bring about change in this world, that you would allow this to be used for Your glory and for the deepening of their relationship with You. Please help them to not lose heart in serving you because of the overwhelming circumstances that they see, but to believe that they will see Your goodness in their lives (Psalm 27:13) and to trust that you will add the increase to the seeds they are planting. Help them to “lie down and sleep in peace,” for You alone, O Lord, make them dwell in safety. (Psalm 4:8) I ask these things, in Jesus’ name.
Bless your heart; you always give me so much to think about with every blog I read. And I know that reading what you write, though quite detailed, can not compare with the reality of seeing it in person. I’m a bit cold right now in my house with the heat set at 68. I can’t even imagine being colder for a whole night, or for those you spoke about who are freezing every night. I can only pray that the information in this blog will stay fresh in my mind, and that I will be prompted by the Holy Spirit to keep this situation of extreme poverty in my prayers.
Embark on a Life-Changing Journey with The World Race: Gap Year!
Discover, Serve, and Grow – Join a Global Community of Change-Makers!
Explore diverse cultures, make a lasting impact, and deepen your faith on The World Race. Our global missions program is your chance to step out of your comfort zone and into a world of transformation. Join us on this extraordinary journey of service and self-discovery.
Three months in Europe… say less!
World Race Study Abroad 2024
The ultimate semester abroad in Europe – explore ancient history, vibrant culture, and deepen your faith. Join us for a journey that will equip you to impact the world, while earning college credit.
When you sponsor a child it not only provides a hot meal, clean water, discipleship, and basic medical care for the child, it also supports their family by inviting them through the gates of the CarePoint to receive training, discipleship and mentorship.
Consider linking arms with us to impact children, families, and communities in Eswatini, South Asia, or Guatemala!
We will begin with men’s prayer meeting 7am this morning. I believe it’s about 2pm there. Thank you for being our eyes and ears in that place that is cold in more ways than one. However short a time you are there, and whatever is done or left behind, the true impact is in your hearts, which you will be able to bring home and then pass on to future ministers and generations. Little is much in the hands of the Lord. He loves you (and them) not because of your righteousness or your accomplishments, but because of His. He will produce the fruit in His time. You will have the privilege occasionally to reap it, but often you will be called to simply sow seeds and be a witness. Love you! Dad
We will begin with men’s prayer meeting 7am this morning. I believe it’s about 2pm there. Thank you for being our eyes and ears in that place that is cold in more ways than one. However short a time you are there, and whatever is done or left behind, the true impact is in your hearts, which you will be able to bring home and then pass on to future ministers and generations. Little is much in the hands of the Lord. He loves you (and them) not because of your righteousness or your accomplishments, but because of His. He will produce the fruit in His time. You will have the privilege occasionally to reap it, but often you will be called to simply sow seeds and be a witness. I know it’s nothing, but I will at lest fast from TV and internet this Sunday, and to the extent possible (being Diabetic), less food. Love you! Dad
Dan 10:12 Then said he unto me, Fear not, Daniel: for from the first day that thou didst set thine heart to understand, and to chasten thyself before thy God, thy words were heard, and I am come for thy words.
I agree with your dad, “not because of your righteousness or your accomplishments, but because of His”. And even if we do not see the results of our prayers, it does not mean that the LORD has not heard and that he is not actively at work. We know the sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, he wilt not despise these.
Joining in with you in prayer today.
Steph, Your video touched my heart. I will join you on Sunday. I love you
Cyndy
Steph, thank you for going where God has called you–and for blogging about it. As I’ve read your blog, God has been breaking my heart & breaking my complacency for the need that is HERE–in my family, at PBU, in Kensington. During my last semester of classes, when I could easily have gotten isolated & mired down in work and independence, God has refused to let me forget the love that He calls His people to–and you & your team have been a big part of that. Thank you for reminding me that love means calling one another into greatness, that community is an essential part of God’s calling on our lives, and that God’s love is so strong. I’m praying for you & your team so much.
Love, Marissa
Thanks you for showing us what we are NOT comfortable seeing. I have seen hungry children in Zimbabwe, and was able to help, BUT they were warm. I cannot imagine really going through winter never feeling warm, feeling chilled to the bone all the time. Thank you for being Jesus’ hands and feet where we cannot go and teaching us to look, think about and pray for those in the world and here. We must fight the injustice and the vast gap between the rich and the poor, and the greed that goes along with it where ever and however we can, for by that we reap the GREAT reward and hear “Well done, my good and faithful servant.” I don’t EVER want to ask, “Lord, when were you…………….?”
Love, Susan
Dear Father, guide these men and women to minister Your love in the way You have prepared in advance. Show them clearly Your unique purpose for them there. Bless those they minister to … may they see Your face. In our Lord Jesus. AMEN
Steph:
I’m sorry I’m reading this so late (Saturday 10:40 p.m. here). It’s already 5:40 a.m. there, and I’m not sure if your fasting and freezing are almost over, or just beginning. But, I’m stopping to pray right now:
Dear Lord, I pray your hand of protection to be over Stephanie and the teams in Romania, and all those who are out in the cold and hungry tonight. I pray that they will put their trust in You as their Shield and Protector (Proverbs 30:5). Protect them physically from the cold and from any weakness or illness they may suffer from not eating. Protect them from any acts of violence by others or any plans of evil. I pray that you would surround them with your angels to keep watch over them. Help them to hear Your voice leading them, and help them to obey You so that they will always be in Your will. I pray that You, Lord, will keep your eyes on them and that they will not take their eyes off You. Help them to learn to dwell in Your shadow and under Your umbrella of protection (Psalm 91:1). I pray that You will be their refuge and strength and their very present help in trouble and that no weapon formed against them will prosper. Please be merciful, oh Lord, and give them safety in the shadow of Your wings. I pray that as they make their effort to show you they are serious in their prayers to bring about change in this world, that you would allow this to be used for Your glory and for the deepening of their relationship with You. Please help them to not lose heart in serving you because of the overwhelming circumstances that they see, but to believe that they will see Your goodness in their lives (Psalm 27:13) and to trust that you will add the increase to the seeds they are planting. Help them to “lie down and sleep in peace,” for You alone, O Lord, make them dwell in safety. (Psalm 4:8) I ask these things, in Jesus’ name.
Bless your heart; you always give me so much to think about with every blog I read. And I know that reading what you write, though quite detailed, can not compare with the reality of seeing it in person. I’m a bit cold right now in my house with the heat set at 68. I can’t even imagine being colder for a whole night, or for those you spoke about who are freezing every night. I can only pray that the information in this blog will stay fresh in my mind, and that I will be prompted by the Holy Spirit to keep this situation of extreme poverty in my prayers.
With love and prayers,
Angela