Getting Started Here...

Well, so far, our days have been focused on getting comfortable with the culture here, getting used to the city and transportation system (which mainly consists of walking, always good for the body), and meeting many new people and faces.  Some things here are similiar to life back in the states, but many things are different.  The city is beautiful, with a river running through the middle of the city and a castle at the top of it.  The main difference here is the religion.  

In a nutshell, the country of Slovenia has a population of about 2 million.  Of those people, only 1000 claim the title of "Evangelical Christian".  Within the capital city of Ljubljana, where we are staying, there are probably only 200 or so proclaimed Christians.  There are more Catholics than Christians.  For the most part, Slovenes do not see a need for much religion.  They seem to be happy living their life, but there is a lot of pain here.  The abortion, eating disorder, and suicide rates are very high.  It is a place very focused on the outward appearance and material things, with most people dressing very stylish and keeping up with the latest fads.  

The people we have met in the church are wonderful.  The difficult thing about the mission here is that it is an extremely slow process.  The main focus is building relationships with people and allowing Christ to be seen through actions, relationship, trust, and love.  It takes time for all of those things, and we don't have much of it.  We have been asked to meet people and make friends and just love in any way we can, to be Christ to those who do not understand who He is. 

What is difficult is that it could be so hard to tell if His Word is being heard.  But, God does not call us to save others, that is His job.  He only asks us to be His servants and love others the way He loved us.  I am praying for God to continue to open doors and give me the courage, wisdom, and words I need to spread His love in this hurting country.  Please pray for me as well, that I will be receptive to the Spirit's prodding and take advantage of each and every opportunity that is put in front of me.  God can use an infinite amount of methods to spread His Word, we just have to be willing as a team to follow the direction of the Spirit.  

In a couple of weeks, we will be able to help with two weeks of English camp with both adults and children, and I am excited to see how God will work there.  I'll continue to keep everyone updated! Your prayers are deeply needed and appreciated.