Humbled

(Igor, Constantsa, Colleen & Eli)

Yesterday, we talked to the boys about money management and the importance of saving money for the future. The topic was much more complicated than we'd originally anticipated. We had no prior knowledge of their financial situations or how they receive income. We quickly found out that this was not going to be an easy topic. The boys are given money every 3 days for all of them to share for food and transportation. When we began talking about saving for the future, they were confused because that is not a concept they are familiar with. Since they grew up in different orphanages, they are used to living day to day and the future isn't really something they think about. When we talked about money in the context of having a family one day, they began to worry since none of them have jobs (except Eli will translate occasionally & Alex will occasionally get paid for teaching guitar & playing at camps). It's harder to find a job here in Moldova, even though it's hard in the U.S. as well. When Eli told us that, we instantly felt guilty because our intention wasn't to make them worry, but to explain the importance of saving.

When we talked about setting a little money aside, they explained that they like to help those in need whenever possible. They said that the money is God's and that's what He would want them to do because the Bible tells us to give to those in need. The hard part is that they don't see themselves as being in need. Hearing their strong desire to help others when they have so little, really made us feel ashamed. We have so much and yet we can be so stingy when it comes to helping others. This week we have witnessed their amazing faith in God's provisions and their trust that He will provide. We have also been the recipients of their generosity. It's been a very humbling experience, knowing that they really don't have the money to spend on us, yet they see us as valuable enough to do so.

Every time we get together with them, we are thanked numerous times. They also pray at the end of every lesson and thank God for us being there. We have become so close to them that it's going to be even harder to leave Moldova. We dread that day and I already know tears will fall.
(Mono poquito napkin?)

(Igor, Sara & Eli)

We appreciate all of your prayers as we are across the world, but know we are in good hands, God's hands. He has taken care of us and we aren't worried about our safety or the strange foods we eat and buses we ride. God has blessed us with knowing them and our faith has been challenged through their selfless love. Also, chivalry isn't dead...at least not in Moldova.

As you pray for us on this trip, I (Sara) would also appreciate your prayers as I prayerfully consider an extended stay here in Moldova in the near future. The need here is great. As you pray for us, please pray for the boys, Elijah, Igor, Alex, Eduard & Dima. They have such great hearts and they all desperately want to come to the states. Pray for God's plan for their lives and that their faith would continue to grow.

(Eduard, Eli, Dima & Alex)