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photo credit: Alex Venegas
Wow, I've been hearing about Ukraine in the news and conversations more in the last two months than I have in my entire life! It’s a surreal experience knowing the country our team is preparing to minister to and be ministered by, is on the brink of war with Russia. You begin to see how fluid and subjective the borders and territories of countries are when they are literally being redrawn before your eyes. Perhaps now, more than ever, it is a good opportunity to remind the people of Ukraine that they are not alone, and partner with them in prayer.
Ukraine is in a very vulnerable position economically and politically right now, but the world and its Savior have not forgotten about the people of Ukraine. And God has given us the opportunity to extend His love and encouragement in person. It begs the question: what should it look like to be my brother’s keeper in local and global contexts? And how can I love my neighbor as myself in my hometown and abroad?
While unrest continues in Ukraine, our team is in the process of fundraising and preparing. Team Ukraine has been raising support now for several weeks and has held two successful fundraisers including a pancake & fruit dinner and an Italian spaghetti dinner. Our team has been very creative in coming up with fundraising event ideas and we're having fun in the process. We even have plans for an ultimate frisbee tournament where you can form teams with your friends, have fun & exercise while supporting our mission. You might even take home the coveted golden frisbee.
We have been wrestling as a team with discomfort and unfamiliarity with fundraising. God has been revealing to us the ministry involved in inviting His people to come along on the spiritual journey He has prepared for us. God knows we need the church body to fulfill His mission and is teaching us the invaluable lessons of responding in faith, stepping out in trust, and to humbly ask you to join us through prayer and financial giving. Keep an eye out for opportunities to partner with us and support Exposure Trip Ukraine 2014!
Thank you for your prayers as we continue to prepare.
Jason Savage