From: Ira Kapitonova (Day 1253)
But I am like a green olive tree in the house of God.
I trust in the steadfast love of God forever and ever.
Psalm 52:8
I used to think that war leaves little room for anything else. However, it turns out that even the hardest of circumstances can have a lot of color.
One of the things we saw at the beginning of the war and keep seeing today is a hunger for the Lord. The churches close to the frontline tell about new people joining the church and getting baptized. When hope feels unreasonable, God is the only one who can truly fill the void. In the army, when people are aware of their everyday fragility, they bare their souls and talk about things of eternity. And, surprisingly, many soldiers are excited to get a Bible. That’s why it’s crucial to be the light no matter where you are, and that’s why it’s important for Christians to speak life in places death tries to put its grip on.
Military chaplains have a responsibility that cannot be overestimated. They share their lives with those who see and experience unspeakable horrors, yet they are to be the beacons of hope. They are to visit the wounded and widowed. They are to shed light in the darkness. So they desperately need our prayers. The pastor of the church we’ve been attending in Kyiv left his flock to be a military chaplain, and even though it is not easy, it is priceless to know someone who lives according to what he preaches.
I keep thinking about my second cousin’s funeral. The Orthodox priest who performed the ceremony showed so much care and understanding. As soon as he came into the yard, he spoke words of encouragement, “Do not grieve for he is with the living.” It may seem like an ordinary phrase, but it showed his heart and genuine concern.
Lord, shine your light in this world. Help us be your hands and feet. Help us speak your words of life wherever we are.
P.S. Meanwhile, Ukraine and Kyiv are under yet another massive attack.
Voice of Ukraine 