When I woke up this morning I didn't think it would be anything special, just another normal day. But God had something better planned. Of course, I got on facebook and people had already started posting on my wall. It started to feel a little more like my birthday. But by the time I got to church I was ready to share my day with my wonderful Gypsy church family. I had brought drinks and cake for everyone. When I was putting the stuff in the kitchen one of the boys asked if I wanted to see my presents. I had no idea what he was talking about. He opened the schoolroom door and there was a table full of gifts and flowers. I was so touched and taken back that I started getting emotional. Then I went upstairs and the church was so full there was only one seat left in the very front. So today at church was the Lord's Supper and a baby dedication. And after that all was over, the pastor read a blessing from Psalms over me and then I was prayed for. I was getting to the breaking point. Then they brought me up front and started singing and one by one, the ladies from my Bible study and the church presented their gifts to me, saying La Multi Ani (Happy Birthday) and giving me the traditional kiss on both cheeks. The line went all the way to the back of the church. By this time I was crying and then after this was all done, the pastor asked if I wanted to share a few words. It took me awhile to compose myself, but I was able to thank them and share how much they mean to me and how blessed I was by their love and generosity. At the end of church we shared cake and drinks with everyone! I left feeling completely blessed, loved and accepted by the people I have come to minister to and serve.
A few hours later, 8 of my friends came over for cake. We had a time of fellowship and I was just thankful that they took time out of their day to spend it with me. I also skyped with my parents and grandma.
I will never forget this birthday! God continues to show me how much these people care and love me and that He has brought me here for a reason.
Here is a picture of the presents that I received today from the church and friends; and also the flowers that I recieved. It felt like Christmas!!!
1 comment:
Buna! Ce faci? I am Liesl Wicklund also known for the last few years as "Romaniac" :) I have been to Romania five times since 2005. And since my first short term trip there, I talk, eat, and dream Romania. And I will soon be returning again in a few weeks for a two month stay. I met the Team Expansion president about 2 years ago. I told him about my passion for the people groups in Romania, and he told me about you. I am finishing up the Perspectives on the World Christian movement class this semester. And since my passion is the Romanian people groups, I chose to do my people group project on the Romanian gypsy people groups. As I was looking at your blog, I noticed that you work with some of the gypsies. I would be interested in learning more about what you do with the gypsies. Since going to Romania in 2005-06, I have been wondering what God wants me to do with this heart for Romania that He has given me.
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