Go Canada!

Ben and Ang are forcing me to write a blog about my first impressions of Ukraine and YWAM and YWAM in Ukraine, which is a dangerous thing to do when I am so jet lagged…  Luckily, my impressions so far have been good ones.  I will elaborate with a three point sermon:

First of all, the people here (on the YWAM base) are very friendly and welcoming, which has been beneficial considering I have to share a bathroom with 8 of them.  The leaders on the base seem to really know what they are doing and they have a clear and vibrant vision for their ministries (yes, this includes Ang and Ben).  I would go into detail, but that’s their job.  They are doing a good work, but are overstretched which is probably the norm when doing ministry.  They all seem to wear many different hats, and in my short time here they have been an inspiration considering that they do all the things they have to do without complaining or arguing…as far as I’ve noticed anyway.

Secondly, I have had the opportunity to see a little bit of the city so far and have been told about it’s history.  It is amazing, beautiful and complex all rolled in one (much like whoever is reading this, I’m sure).  There is lots to see, lots of people and lots of things I do not understand.  (By the way, if you are thinking of coming here, which you should,  learn from my ignorance and consider learning a bit of Russian before you come, it would be beneficial.)

Thirdly, I have been astounded by seeing what Ben and Ang can accomplish with three kids along for the ride.  I will blow their horn for a while, so hopefully they won’t delete this part.  They are a testament to patience and grace.  I’ll tell you why.  First they have put up with me for the past three days, and they have two months to go.  I have not seen a grimace or eye roll from them yet, not even a sigh of exasperation.  Kudos to them for that.  In addition, every experience I have had here, whether it was actually flying here from Canada or even trekking through this massive city, I have imagined doing with three kids with me, and each time I’ve imagined these scenarios I found myself racked with imaginary anxiety.  Seriously people, my sanity would be hanging by a thread if I was them.  I don’t know how they do it (probably because of Jesus), and because they go through life with such amazing attitudes I find myself inspired.  And because they still are completely sane, thriving, faith filled human beings I have a new found belief in miracles.

In conclusion, this city is great, YWAMers are great, Ben and Ang and their kids are great, God is greater because He has made all these things and gives them all strength to carry on.  If you support Ben and Ang and their ministry in any way, which you probably do if you are reading this blog, then I have a deep respect and appreciation for you and, after being here, know that it is a great thing you are doing to support them.  Thanks for your attention.