I went to the first country presentation the other night (Every Wednesday night, students from different countries create a 20(ish) minute presentation about what they think are the most important things to know about their country) This past Wednesday was the Czech Republic/Slovak presentation and though it was pretty interesting, it was very discouraging. The whole thing centered around (and accurately represented the central focus of the student population in CR in general) partying and getting drunk. The student audience went wild when the subject of pivo (beer) parties and more parties was brought up. It was just really disheartening to be sitting in a crowded room of people and feel like the only one not excited about the raging parties. I came back to my room feeling the most alone I've felt since being here, and yet God reminded me that he is near to the brokenhearted. The next morning as I headed to class, I passed by this sign and had to laugh:
It's little things like that that remind me not to take life too seriously. And even when I'm feeling alone, it's okay to laugh. In fact, that little sign ended up shaping the rest of my whole day. I was much more joyful and probably more enjoyable to be around.
But it didn't stop there.
Last night, I went to the first meeting for the English Christian Fellowship which meets at the Salvation Army. I was so thankful for those two hours of being drenched in fellowship and the Word, hearing others share the same feelings of solitude and fears that I had been thinking I was alone in feeling. There weren't many of us (2 Czechs, 2 Americans (myself included), an Indonesian, a Mexican, and the Dutch woman in charge of the Salvation Army Brno, all girls) We talked about the scripture in Matthew dealing with judging and criticizing others and all left feeling humbled and renewed to go back to Vinarska and love our new friends. Thursday nights will definitely be a night I will look forward to for refilling and refreshing my spirit. It's encouraging to know there are other Christians here in Brno fighting the same battles I am and that there are people I can turn to when I need encouragement. But God continues to remind me not to seclude myself within the comfort of Christian friends. He has called me here to be light to non Christians, to share love and freedom that comes from knowing Him. And so that's what I will do. But I am thankful that he has provided me Thursday nights with my 6 Christian friends. I am so blessed.
ALSO, exactly 4 months from today I am getting married to my best friend and the funniest, most wonderful and faithful servant of Christ. I am convinced I am the luckiest girl on this planet.
Today, please be praying for the international students in general. There are about 300(ish) of us living in the confines of 4 floors. Pray that God would use our close living quarters to provide opportunities for meaningful conversations and places to let our guards down and be real with each other.
Blessed be the name of the Lord! :)
No comments:
Post a Comment