Time really does fly, and it’s February already!
The Christmas holidays have passed, but as we reflect on the past month, we can’t help but feel thankful for the amazing stories we’ve heard about how God is touching the lives of people in Ukraine.
We’ve heard stories of people’s lives being completely transformed by the love of Christ. We’ve heard stories of those who were suffering, now finding joy and hope. We’ve heard stories of those who were lost, now finding purpose in life. It is really a joy to hear these stories of change, and it is such a blessing to be able to support and pray for those people who are going through such hard times in Ukraine.
Our missionaries shared the story of a little boy who came to our center at Christmas to receive his Christmas present. He lived with his grandfather in Slovyansk, Ukraine.
The boy was living in difficult circumstances, constantly under the threat of shelling, but he still managed to appreciate the joy of Christmas.
When the boy came, we noticed that he had a piece of bread in his hand.
Yes, the peace of bread. Not a piece of candy, but a piece of bread.
He knew the meaning of this bread. He knew that this bread could make a world of difference to him and his family. His eyes lit up as he clutched the crust tightly in his small fingers, revealing a glimmer of hope for a better tomorrow.
It was a reminder that no matter the circumstances, there was still something to be thankful for. It was the little things in life that often made the biggest difference.
It was an image that will stay with us – a child living in such dire circumstances, still clinging to something as simple as a piece of bread.
But despite the hardship, he could still appreciate the joy of Christmas, with a smile on his face and a glimmer of hope in his eyes. His story reminds us that in the midst of darkness, there can still be light.
It’s a heartbreaking reminder of how many in Ukraine have struggled to survive during this war.
It reminds us to cherish the small moments of joy in our lives and to be grateful for what we have.
We continue to bring food to the refugees in Ukraine, offering them a symbol of life and hope.
I remember my grandmother telling me how they appreciated bread during the Second World War.
They would take the few pieces they had and break them up among the family so that everyone could share in the nourishment. It was much-needed food, and they always thanked God for the bread. This sacred tradition is still very much alive today, even in the most difficult of times.
We remember that even in the darkness, we can bring light through small acts of kindness. As we share food with the refugees in Ukraine, we remind them that their lives have value. And that even in their darkest moments, there are people who will stand by them.
Bringing food and bread to the war-torn Ukrainian people is an act of mercy, of loving, and caring. It reminds those suffering that they have not been forgotten. The Bread of Life is a powerful symbol of hope and sustaining life. “Give us this day our daily bread,” Jesus said in the Lord’s Prayer. By bringing food and bread to the people of Ukraine, we show them that God is with them and will provide for them in their time of need.
We are grateful to God for His love and mercy in allowing us to bring food, bread, and other necessities to the people of Ukraine. We are grateful to all those who support us with their donations, prayers, and hard work. We pray that peace, healing, and prosperity will soon come to the people of Ukraine.
Gratefully,
Your Brother in the Lord,
Pastor Vitali Yuchkovski