Ukraine - A Nation and Our Neighbors

Typically, in this message I try to share words of encouragement or some lessons the Lord is teaching regarding Christian leadership or spiritual growth. On occasion, I share some updates regarding our ministry and work together as SBCV churches and leaders.

Today, I want to share regarding the situation in Ukraine — because it is somewhat personal. You see my next-door neighbor is from Ukraine. She and her husband, along with their young daughter, moved in next door about four years ago (for their privacy I have chosen to not share their names). They are both medical professionals and moved to the US as young adults. Her parents, sister, and extended family live about a mile from the capital of Ukraine. I was wondering how they were doing and was able to check in with my neighbors this past Friday. At that time her family still had internet, and they were able to still communicate. My neighbor is sad, worried, and upset — even though she is somewhat stoic in her demeanor.

We have had the privilege to build a relationship with our neighbors. Just the other month, she made a profession of faith in Christ — she had become involved in a small group from our church that our neighbors two streets over lead. I am thankful she now knows the Gospel of Christ and has put her faith in Him. We are still prayerful for her husband (he’s originally from Poland) to come to faith in Christ. Please pray for the Lord to encourage her faith as she hurts for her native land, people, and family.

In the global scheme of things, the only thing that will change tyrants’ hearts is the Lord. I do pray for peace and righteousness to prevail. On a personal level, we want to keep sharing the hope of Christ with our neighbors and the nations. From a ministry perspective, our churches can pray, give, and partner with our loved ones in Eastern Europe to minister to refugees and the oppressed. SBCV has two current channels of ministry — Send Relief (with our IMB partners) and the Ukrainian Baptist Seminary.

Whether they are our neighbors or the nations, the Lord has called us to share the love, hope, and life-transforming Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Here is a link to our webpage for ongoing updates and information on praying, giving, and partnering: sbcv.org/ukraine.

“The LORD is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O LORD, have not forsaken those who seek you.” (Psalm 9:9–10 ESV)

Your brother in Christ,

BRIAN AUTRY
Executive Director
SBC of Virginia