We continue to be devastated at the destruction of lives and country in Ukraine. The continuing encouraging thing through this though is the way Ukrainians are working together to defend and protect their country and each other. The help we’re able to be a part of through our local church in Ukraine is quite possibly saving lives. A friend said to me in a message a couple days ago, “I am proud of the people in our church who are doing a lot of things. Anytime you ask somebody about something, they will help you. No matter if you know this person or not, if it’s a Christian or not. They are great people. I always knew that about my church but today they show in deeds and activities.”
1 John 3:18 has always been a verse behind so much of what we do with Open Arms. “Let us not love in word or tongue, but with actions and in truth.” We are seeing this play out in very real, very dangerous ways right now in Ukraine. People risking their own lives to help others. Not just on the front lines against Putin’s army, but in their warn-torn neighborhoods where supplies aren’t accessible to many.
Putin can send his attacks to destroy hospitals, kindergartens, homes, apartments, and everything in between. But he can’t destroy the spirit of the people of Ukraine. They are as strong as ever. And maybe stronger with each hit he sends.
Here’s a few pictures of some of the people who have been helped thanks to your donations this week. We’ve covered their faces for their protection, but wanted to share them with you none the less. Babies in the orphanage where your money bought diapers. Mothers accepting food for their families, some with 7 kids, some special needs, all scared, hiding and trying to keep their babies safe. An intensive care nurse bringing in medicine the hospital can’t get on their own now. And older woman receiving a bag of groceries she couldn’t get herself. We’re so grateful to hold hands across the world, helping along with you and the church in Ukraine.
💙Anika
