Beloved,

Trust you are walking in the Lord. Thursday was another adventurous day. Often the things that man plans out never seems to be the way the Lord wants it to work out. All you organized and list people would struggle with the way you have to do ministry here. It is not that they are structured they are but in a moment’s notice your plans might change so you better be ready. But that is Russia and that is the way of life. I must say that my heart continues to grow for these people. They are precious in the Lord. We had a great day. Ministry continues to go well. You act goofy enough and the kids love you, yet that gives you the opportunity to dive into their hearts and talk about Christ. We went to the forest and played kick ball and did belly bouncing. Yes I know what you are thinking, belly bouncing? Some of the boys wanted to bump chests as a form of greeting. The problem is most of their heads line up with my belly. Did they bounce? Yes they did. Also last night was a blessing after dinner as we sat around and talked ministry with Vadim. He is the head pastor of the Church here in Tambov. He reminds me of a young Timothy with a heart and passion to love and serve the people. The night concluded with us going to the store and buying food to watch the big Russia soccer game. Please pray for Vicki, her husband seems to seek out things that I would deem not worthy to be on a grocery list. His gut is holding up but I am still waiting to see what happens. Today (Friday) finds our day with reaching out to these kids and going to the forest again. The team is doing a great job with all the different responsibilities. Jerry is our bell guy and is helping the kids put together a song that will be played on Sunday in front of the church. The crafts and game have been going well and we are looking forward to handing out the Russian Bibles on Saturday or Sunday. I found it interesting that the leadership here asked if theses Bibles where in English. They expressed that if they were in English they could practice the language. Also tonight, Dirk and I will be on radio. Don’t know where that will go but think it as an opportunity to share Christ. Pray that we continue to find God’s grace. He is sustaining us and providing many opportunities to show His love.

Continuing to Look to the Lord’s Shaping,

Pastor Bear