Mission to Montenegro newsletter
Blog entry for 18 April 2017
April 2017 Mission to Montenegro Newsletter
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away...
I Peter 1:3-4a
Grace and Peace to you in the name of God our Father!
With both western and Orthodox Easter falling on the same date this year, a number of people were away attending annual (western) Easter camps. While missing our brethren, we were blessed to have with us American, Ukrainian, and Bulgarian believers for our celebration!
- Stan's Easter sermon, Daily Blessings Inherent in the Resurrection, showed forth the abundant goodness and mercies of God in the death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ and reminded us to reflect on those blessings not only at Easter, but throughout the days and weeks of our lives. In our ongoing Lord's Day services, he is continuing in the Gospel of Luke in the morning and will be wrapping up 1 Timothy this month in the evening.
- April has been a month of hospitality! Before this month is over, we will have been privileged to host four different families in our home for varying lengths of time. We are always amazed (and thrilled!) at the number of people who manage to pass through Niksic... Some were here for refreshment, some seeking to know if God is calling them to Montenegro, some for practical help. Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! Amen!
- We've been able to visit the elderly and infirm of whom two are now completely housebound. We are encouraged with the interest shown in reading Scripture and singing hymns. Plus we are reminded to take advantage of modern technology to send small, encouraging texts often--they truly are much appreciated.
Upcoming Ministry and Prayer Requests:
- Please pray for those families and individuals who have heard the Word (especially unbelieving family members) but have yet to turn wholeheartedly to God. Pray that they would be freed from the shackles of unbelief; from the fear of man; and from the lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes, and the pride of life. Oh, may God have mercy!
- Please pray for our elderly and sick, that God would comfort them in their affliction and they would know, truly know, a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. And pray that we stir ourselves to love and good works on their behalf.
- Please pray for our time in the States next month as we celebrate the university graduations of not one, but two of our children! We thank the Lord for their accomplishments and ask you to join us in praying that they will hold fast to Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord, and turn away from evil."
- Please pray for the men who will be ministering the Word and leading the services while we are away. And please continue to pray for a person to be raised up to oversee ongoing ministry to the children of the church and of the community.
With much love and appreciation for your ongoing prayers and support in this great work of God,
Stan and Vicki Surbatovich
Mission to Montenegro
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