Hello for Ukraine,
We safely arrived to Odessa, Ukraine on Saturday afternoon. There has been beautiful weather here and we have already experienced more sunny days in the few days here than we did the entire trip last year. While standing in the customs line, Ryan and I discussed whether we thought that it was brighter here than just one year ago. This brightness is not just from the added sunshine but possibly from the hope that has been brought forward as a result of a political revolution that has taken place since our last visit.
We both agreed that last year our Ukrainian brothers and sisters in Christ here were extremely hospitable; however as a general rule, the Ukrainians appeared to be an oppressed people. As we made our way through the customs line, we were not badgered with questions of “What are you doing here,” “How much money have you brought,” “What are your plans here” and other skeptical questioning from the customs workers. This year we were not questioned much at all and we were actually interrogating about two of our bags that did not make it from Munich.
This year their seems to be a new since of hope that is emerging from the people and their facial expressions. This hope comes admits the continued fighting in the east. This hope is a result of what several have described as true freedom, but this hope comes at a price. The price has been heavy but we are told it is well worth the liberty that is obtained. So now, people walk the streets with smiles on their faces with a sense of opportunity and a since of national pride. The flags are flying high here in Kherson. This story of hope is a reminder of a story of hope all too familiar for all Christian believers.
Patrick
P.S.- Thanks to SCCGO for the extra t-shirt to wear, but it’s probably not the best shirt to wear here given the political situation. But what can you do when you don’t have your luggage.
Leave a Reply