tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1298355028871342852024-02-08T11:14:59.415-05:00Prepare The WayBen Bradfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617150777657747409noreply@blogger.comBlogger27125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-129835502887134285.post-43522258979233330462011-07-07T20:06:00.003-04:002011-10-19T12:52:23.734-04:00Final Update?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nO82asgtztg/ThZEaYOzgUI/AAAAAAAAARA/ugsoQFQlpt4/s1600/IMG_4725.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="190" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nO82asgtztg/ThZEaYOzgUI/AAAAAAAAARA/ugsoQFQlpt4/s320/IMG_4725.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;">Hello friends,</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;">Once again, I find myself asking for your forgiveness for taking so long to update. I was hoping to have a handle on the next step before posting, but as it is, that part of the journey has yet to be revealed, so I will tarry no longer.<br />
</span><br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qaQ5szBuYM4/ThZFJW2o83I/AAAAAAAAARI/N4TX4gJkroM/s1600/IMG_4748.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qaQ5szBuYM4/ThZFJW2o83I/AAAAAAAAARI/N4TX4gJkroM/s320/IMG_4748.jpg" width="212" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;">Before leaving Greece, I had the opportunity to help disseminate the shoes for the Roma children brought from the States. The children were very excited to receive these shoes and some of the boys who were wearing women's slip-on's were definitely in need of more appropriate shoes. It was such a blessing to see that initiative come to pass from inception to fruition. My friend Nikola's compassionate thought, lead to a comment, that led to a posting on the web, that would bring a duffle bag full of shoes across the ocean to children in need. To those that made financial contributions, here is Yana's note to me:<br />
<br />
"[I] b<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;">ought some things for classes, medicines for some kids and there are still some left which I will use in time of need. It is so great when you don't need to think about the money. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif; line-height: 14px;">You just have it and use it. I like it. God bless those people who give and you for your heart."<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif; line-height: 14px;">Again, thank you so much to those that helped make that possible. I wish I could put these kids right in front of you, so that you could see and touch their smiling faces. Words and photos will have to suffice until the age to come.</span><br />
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The team of interns from Dwelling Place in Virginia did a fantastic job. They didn't back down from loving people and preaching Jesus on the university campus and in downtown Peraia. One of the young girls they talked to admitted to being "afraid" of them because they were "so close to God." Amanda shared a word with her and she responded, "God sent you all the way over here to tell me that, didn't He?" The gospel is certainly constantly bearing fruit and increasing in all the world (Col 1:6).<br />
</span><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U0t3EfyOwqU/ThZEeZeXyoI/AAAAAAAAARE/62BGP4gkxSg/s1600/_MG_4714.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U0t3EfyOwqU/ThZEeZeXyoI/AAAAAAAAARE/62BGP4gkxSg/s320/_MG_4714.jpg" width="201" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;">I returned with the team on June 2nd. I've returned to work at the UPS Store, as I prayerfully consider the next step. I have presently decided not to return to Greece in the fall. I am taking steps to secure housing and roommates in the Christiansburg area, as I explore opportunities to integrate my desire to do the work of missions in a more financially sustainable way, perhaps vocationally. I am researching graduate school in my spare time. We shall see where the Lord leads. I love the mission field!<br />
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Lastly, I would just like to thank everyone that has supported me prayerfully, financially, and emotionally, in both word and deed. I could not have done it without your support. My time in Greece remains as an everlasting testimony of the Lord's faithfulness. I am so abundantly blessed to have had this opportunity to see the Lord work miracles before my very eyes over the past six months. Know that through your partnership, you have released the kingdom of God throughout the nations.<br />
<br />
Although this chapter of <i>Ben In The Balkans</i> appears to be closing, I don't doubt that I will return to the Balkans again in the future. Until then, check back periodically, as I may continue to update this blog with news and thoughts, as they develop in the future.<br />
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As always, much love.<br />
<br />
Thankfully His,<br />
<br />
Ben<br />
<br />
Feel free to <a href="http://beninthebalkans.blogspot.com/p/contact-me.html">contact me</a> with thoughts, comments, questions, or hello's!</span></span>Ben Bradfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617150777657747409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-129835502887134285.post-57489963220489613752011-05-27T10:00:00.000-04:002011-05-27T10:00:42.471-04:00ReinforcementsHey friends,<br />
<br />
I know it's been a while since I've posted an update. I last wrote before returning to the States for a few days to see my brother graduate and commission, and since then I have been busy with the team of interns from my home church in VA, <i>Dwelling Place</i>.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mihaniona Homegroup</td></tr>
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It has been great having this team of four here who have come to add fuel to fire as part of their year-end short-term mission trip. We first travelled once again to the island of Thasos, where we have continued to strengthen our relationship with the body of Christ there.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and Nikola</td></tr>
</tbody></table>My friend Nikola, who moved there a little over a month ago, is now working full-time with a group of Russian artisan/construction workers. It's a much better environment for him than the Pizzeria and he has the opportunity to master masonry skills, giving him the potential for entrepreneurship in the future. He typically works 12-14 hour days; however, it rained one morning while we were there and he texted me saying, "My God arange the rain for today" (no work!). Needless to say, he was really encouraged by seeing everyone from Thessaloniki again. It was great to see him enduring and persevering both in work and faith. I'm really proud of him.<br />
<br />
The team of interns collaborated with a team of Swedish Bible students who were on mission in Thasos with the church there. They performed the famous <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cyheJ480LYA">Lifehouse Everything Skit</a> together one night on the boardwalk. Alex, one of the interns, shared his testimony and Tommie shared a short, sweet, and simple, gospel message. Two 12-year old girls that we talked to afterward prayed to accept Jesus. They sincerely said, "We want that." <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Swedish & USA Mission Teams performing Lifehouse Everything Skit</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fresh fruit for all the kids</td></tr>
</tbody></table> Last Tuesday we had the opportunity to travel to the local Roma (Gypsy) village once again. It can be challenging with the language barrier at times; however, I truly believe our presence and our prayers change the atmosphere of that place. The kids may not always do what I say, but they will certainly imitate what I do. The way that our team interacts with each other and the way we emphasize fairness, respect, sharing, and kindness in our interaction with them in games, lessons, and provision, speak loudly to them. <br />
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Next Tuesday the team will bring the shoes donated and supplied from the States and additional financial donations will go towards meeting the childrens' most immediate needs. I'm looking forward to seeing their smiling faces. Photos to come!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Worship and Lesson in the Gypsy village church</td></tr>
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Since then, we have been back in Thessaloniki pressing the university campus almost every day with our coffee outreach, maximizing our manpower, and fellowshipping with many of the young people we have developed a relationship with so far. Tonight we go for an outreach locally at the waterfront in Peraia. Tomorrow we will target the same area with an open-air drama and an illustration of the gospel through our friend Eva's sketchboard.<br />
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Thank you for praying for us. Continue to pray that God will continue to draw all men unto Himself. Pray that God would pour out His Spirit on this nation. Pray for the salvation of our unbelieving friends. Pray that young believers would grow into mature sons and daughters of God.<br />
<br />
I will be returning to the States on June 2nd. Prayers concerning the next step for me are much appreciated. I hope to have the opportunity to visit with you in person when I return!<br />
<br />
May grace and love abound,<br />
<br />
Ben<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Ben Bradfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617150777657747409noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-129835502887134285.post-41693470635327280342011-05-09T07:58:00.000-04:002011-05-09T07:58:30.844-04:00'He and All His Household'<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Hey friends,<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">God continues to move and demonstrate his faithfulness to answer our prayers here in Greece.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">A couple weeks ago, I spent a few days on the island of Thasos, helping my Serbian friend look for a job. I found out last week that he secured work at a pizzeria/cafe/bar restaurant on the island. This is a huge victory for everyone, especially Nikola, and a major answer to prayer. Thank you, Jesus! Initially, the owner was only going to pay him 35 Euros per day for 12 hours of work, which is very little and hardly enough to survive on. However, we prayed and believed that God would increase his pay and He has! The owner agreed to pay him 25+ Euros for only a few hours of work in the evening. This frees Nikola's morning to do part-time painting, construction, handyman work with a crew of guys, one of whom is a brother in the church. Thank you, Jesus!<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">He is also in good fellowship with the church of Dimitris Peledis and our Swedish missionary friends, with whom we continue to grow closer. While I was there, we all believed that Nikola wasn't there just for work. That's just a part of the package. Nikola is really there for that island. God continues to work alongside him, giving him great grace to love those around him. He encourages everyone with his giftings and testimony. God is so good.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
Continue to pray for Nikola that he would be protected by the power of God; that he would grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and that God would supply him with ample provision for every need.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">An entire family of six recently got saved - <i>Acts 16:34</i> style! A man that Tommie and Gunilla have maintained a friendship with for some years (who was even miraculously healed several years ago) had been experiencing the darker side of the supernatural. From what I understand, the father invited Tommie to his home and together with their family, they asked questions, conversed, and sincerely wanted to become Christians. They told Tommie, "That's why you're here." So, we have been thanking God for their salvation and continue to pray for wisdom and opportunities to come alongside them in their walk with the Lord.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
I will be returning to the States on Wednesday, May 11 to see my brother graduate from VMI and commission into the US Air Force - go Chaz! I will return with a team of four interns from Dwelling Place for their short-term mission trip on Monday, May 16 and then head back to the States June 2nd.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Pray that we would be made of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose. Pray that the team's time here would be powerful, effective, and full of good fruit.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I'm looking forward to seeing family and being back in the States for a few days; as well as, the privilege of joining the DP team on their journey to and from Thessaloniki.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">See you soon. May great grace be upon you all! Love,</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
Ben</span>Ben Bradfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617150777657747409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-129835502887134285.post-15749728336921782822011-04-21T11:09:00.003-04:002011-04-21T11:49:13.892-04:00Lebanon, Macedonia, GreeceHey friends,<br />
<br />
It's been a whirlwind tour over the last week and a half. As stated in my previous post, our beloved Rick Sizemore was with us in Lebanon. After we returned, I traveled with him to Macedonia for several days where he preached and counseled in Veles and Skopje. It was great to be with Rick and run around with him, observing how he preaches, teaches, and counsels. I've been around him for a few years now, but the Lord always teaches me something new. He's a great brother and a great example. I had several opportunities to pray for and speak with people throughout the trip. I even got to mow grass!<br />
<br />
On Thursday night a group of young people met for prayer at Phil and Anna Evan's home where we were staying (Congrats on the birth of their son, Oscar!). Igor shared that a friend of his had been in the hospital for some time with fluid in her lungs; drain-tube and all. We prayed for her that night and when we saw Igor the following day, he said the fluid had almost completely dried up. Praise God! Jesus heals! It was great to spend time fellowshipping, encouraging, praying for and alongside one another in Macedonia. One girl gave her life to Jesus in a home we stopped in briefly, while another three gave their lives to Jesus Sunday afternoon. God is saving people! He is transferring them from the kingdom of darkness into the kingdom of His beloved Son.<br />
<br />
After returning from Macedonia we rested for a day. Then a group of 15 from the Network Community, together with Rick, and Danielle from Serbia, traveled to the island of Thasos to spend time with our brothers and sisters there. Dimitris and his wife Mario, along with Swedish missionaries, Kenneth and Lena are doing a fantastic, persevering work there. It was a great time of bonding and relationship building amongst ourselves; as well as, with the church in Thasos. Rick preached on the heart of the Holy Spirit and I believe many were touched by the power and word of God through prayer and the ministry of the Spirit. You can't begin to talk about that Guy without things happening.<br />
<br />
It's good to be back in Thessaloniki. Rick and Danielle returned to their respective nations today. Victor, Tommie's son is here for spring break and Tommie's wife Gunilla will visit for a week next Thursday.<br />
<br />
We're believing for a job for our friend, Nikola, potentially on the island of Thasos; as well as, for God to break in on the hearts of many of the others he has given us relationships with - For those that don't know Him, to have a revelation of Jesus and for those that do, to continue to have life-changing encounters with His love.<br />
<br />
The motherlands of the gospel will give birth again.<br />
<br />
I've been sick for the past several days and I would appreciate your prayers. I want to be back full swing, meeting guys on the basketball court and campus.<br />
<br />
Below are some photos from Lebanon - Click on this <a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/106053802161043119807/BeirutLebanon#"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;">link</span></a> to see more.<br />
<br />
Love you all,<br />
<br />
Ben<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Emil (Syria), Craig Westhoff, Myself, Christine Westhoff, Hassan (Syria)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tommie Naumann, George (Syria), and Joseph Zorob (Lebanon)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mazin (Lebanon) and Rick Sizemore</td></tr>
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</div>Ben Bradfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617150777657747409noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-129835502887134285.post-61276500501814410482011-04-11T19:03:00.005-04:002011-04-12T15:58:54.914-04:001 Chronicles 14:11<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>"God has broken through my enemies by my hand, like the breakthrough of waters."<br />
</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Lebanon was amazing. The power of God was so strong. Tommie hosted a conference on spiritual breakthrough among some of the local churches that he has developed a relationship with in Beirut. Craig and Christine Westoff, Nancy Devito, Hans Joachim, Rick Sizemore and many others shared the word of God and ministered over the course of five days.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
Sunday morning, the majority of us attended a church comprised almost entirely of Philippino women. These women have left their homes in the Philippines in order to support their families back home. You must understand that these women are like slaves. They work all week, all day, for very little pay. Many are mistreated and abused on multiple levels by their employers. There must have been close to 70 women that packed out Joseph's church building, a relatively small two-room flat on the seventh floor of a downtown apartment building. This Sunday morning service is their only breathing hole. It's the only time during the week they are free from their employers. After Chris preached about acknowledging and surrendering our pain to the Lord, we began to pray for people. God displayed so much grace and healing power as He touched people through us. I had the great pleasure of finding myself between a powerful, loving, jealous God and the beautiful people He wanted to encounter and heal. Many wept and experienced freedom through the power of the Holy Spirit.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">They were a truly inspiring group of women. They worshiped God fervently in spite of their circumstances. It was a testimony to me that <i>He </i>is most certainly, always good.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">If there is one thing the Lord has been teaching me, especially on this trip, it's about being bold and taking steps of faith to express the impression He gives me - to speak out the words, thoughts, or questions He puts in my mind and on my heart. Whether it be for my Syrian brother George, Pastor Joseph, our Greek taxi driver, or the Lebanese grad student in the airplane seat next to me.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
<i>"For who among men knows the thoughts of a man except the </i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; line-height: 0.5em;"><sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-28406W" title="See cross-reference W">W</a>)"></sup></span><i>spirit of the man which is in him?" (1 Cor. 2:11)</i></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><br />
These thoughts and impressions come for a reason and I'm learning to act on them; to give what I receive. I don't know what step 2, 3, 4, and 5 are. I can't take 5 steps at once anyway... so, why do I try?! He puts one step before me at a time. Speak it, say it, do it. We don't know <i>where </i>God will take us and lead us. The end-harvest of salvation decisions, healing, deliverances, all begin with the planting of a seed - a decision to take a step, speak a word, extend a hand.</span></span></i><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"></span></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
David asked the Lord if he should go up against the Philistines, and the Lord responds, promising David the victory. Afterward, David declares that God broke through his enemies by <i>his (David's) </i>hand! </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">God could breakthrough our enemies in a thousand different ways; but He has chosen to do it through <i>our </i>hands - alongside of us. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">T</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">hankful to be a part of it in Beirut last week!<br />
<br />
Photos to come soon!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
<br />
Oh, and watch this video.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/UWHJ6-YhSYQ?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>Ben Bradfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617150777657747409noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-129835502887134285.post-80096083880541000562011-03-31T18:33:00.000-04:002011-03-31T18:33:46.356-04:00John 11:41-42<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>"Father, I thank You that You have heard Me. I knew that You always hear Me;"</i><br />
<br />
Hello friends,<br />
<br />
I just got back from our Thursday night home group in the city. I'm so thankful for people like Elainie that worship God freely with their whole bodies, giving expression in dance and prophetic movement. They spread a freedom and liberty that is infectious and permeates the spiritual atmosphere. As a team, we felt like the Lord wanted us to facilitate an environment for the things God has placed within everyone to come out and be released. With that said, we had a lively discussion of Philippians 3 - one of my favorite chapters. It's cool to see people freely expressing what's on their heart and others responding with truth and honest, sincere testimonies. The body loving the body is a beautiful thing. Grace comes in to fill, strengthen, saturate, and raise up places of weakness. I need a strong brother and sister out there in the world doing damage in the kingdom of light. We all benefit from that. Not to mention we're family and we're here for one another, right?<br />
<br />
Praise Report! A precious member of our body, has been battling intestinal inflammation and recurring abdominal pain for nearly ten years. Within the past ten days the pain was so severe that she was hospitalized. After various tests she was scheduled for a surgical procedure that would remove a portion of her intestine, with a potentially complicated, lengthy recovery. On Tuesday, a group of us fasted and anointed her with oil, agreeing once again with the many prayers that had been prayed, for the kingdom of God to come in power upon her body (And just so you know how holy I am, I had forgotten about the fast and ate a pizza for lunch, haha. However, I repented and continued fasting ;). When the doctors went to do the surgery today, they couldn't find anything to remove! They just enlarged a slightly narrow passage and that was it. Believing this good report is an answer to prayer - THANK YOU, JESUS!<br />
<br />
The Breakthrough Conference in Lebanon is fast approaching. On Tuesday a handful of us from the Network Community will be depart, together with Rick Sizemore and others friends from the United States. Things in southern Syria are a bit dicey in the world, but we're believing for God to make a way for our friends in the Damascus area to secure safe passage to Beruit. Prayer is much appreciated. Pray for protection and the peace of God in Syria. Pray for the wisdom and revelation of God, for those leading and attending the conference. Let the Lord's will be done. We depart Thessaloniki at 9:35pm April 5th and return at 8:45pm on Aptil 11th. Here are just a few names of those participating for the purpose of prayer: Myself, Annika, Jen, Amy, Tommie, Yanna, Rick, Chris, Nancy, Emil, Rana, Hassan, and Joseph.<br />
<br />
Much love. See you soon,<br />
<br />
Ben</span>Ben Bradfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617150777657747409noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-129835502887134285.post-85454535046197521572011-03-20T20:57:00.000-04:002011-03-20T20:57:01.026-04:001 Corinthians 1:9<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Hey friends,<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Man, where to begin? A lot has been happening..<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">First of all, it's awesome to see how God has pursued this Serbian guy that I met on the basketball court. You can certainly run from God, but you can't hide, haha. His lovingkindness is forever in hot pursuit (Psalm 23:6). This guy met the Lord when he was 17, but fell back into the world and long-story-short, ended up in Thessaloniki. He has dived right into fellowship and is loving on everyone. It just wrecks me whenever I hear him pray - to hear this brother of mine that was lost and now is found. I just want to weep and worship God. It makes it all worth it.<br />
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OKQWGBBGn54/TYZ-YqKqDhI/AAAAAAAAAMo/6Xu7OtcDE4w/s1600/IMG_0154.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="147" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OKQWGBBGn54/TYZ-YqKqDhI/AAAAAAAAAMo/6Xu7OtcDE4w/s320/IMG_0154.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
</div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">He has joined Jen and Yanna on Tuesdays as they minister to the Roma (Gypsy) people. He was really moved by the children that lacked shoes and clothing, so I went with them last Tuesday. The first little girl, no more than two years old, that walked up to me didn't have shoes or pants. There are shards of glass and busted pieces of metal everywhere. I posted about it on Facebook and had a good response so far. Praise God, I received some financial contributions for shoes and clothing; as well as, interest in sending some via mail or with the short-term missions team from Dwelling Place in May. The kids are so hungry for love, attention, and discipline. It's tough not being able to speak their language, though many of them can't even read, write, or speak Greek. I just sat there and scatched little Andrea's (below in blue) back while Yanna was teaching them. He just looked at me and smiled. I intend to go there every Tuesday.<br />
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-L7eidfI9u24/TYUrF0UoNRI/AAAAAAAAAMk/VPXXhSABHYo/s1600/IMG_0172.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="215" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-L7eidfI9u24/TYUrF0UoNRI/AAAAAAAAAMk/VPXXhSABHYo/s320/IMG_0172.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I've become part of the leadership team for the Thursday night homegroup in the city. Really pray that Femi, Annika, Natalie and I would lead the group well. Pray that we would take the group where the Lord wants us to take it and full of His heart. Pray that people would really be released, free to express themselves, to grow, to love and to really get to know one another. We need wisdom and unity!<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Next Friday we are having 24 hours of prayer at the church from 7:00pm Friday to 7:00pm Saturday. Some of our friends from the churches in Macedonia will be coming down. I'm really looking forward to an awesome time of worship, prayer, and fellowship with our brothers to the north. Last year this event was a point of significant breakthrough in the church.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Speaking of breakthrough, this is the theme of the upcoming conference Tommie is planning together with fellow churches in Beirut, Lebanon. It's not in my budget, but I believe it's God so I'm going anyway! Haha. I just heard a sermon by Tim Keller in which he recounted a story about Alexander the Great. Alexander was of course extremely wealthy due to his vast conquests. He told his generals that if they needed anything, to just ask him. So, one day, a general came to him and asked Alexander's treasurer for the funds for his daughter's wedding. However, he asked for ten or twenty times above any reasonable amount needed for even the most extravagant wedding. When the treasurer went to Alexander and told him the general's request, he expected Alexander to be shocked and to dismiss or even rebuke him. But instead Alexander told the treasurer that this was excellent. He said, 'This general of mine must believe that I am extremely wealthy and generous,' so he gave it to him! Beloved, have we begun to believe the depth of God's abundance and generosity? 'How much more will He give what is good to those who ask Him' (Matt 7:11)!<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I digress! We are still reaching out to students on campus twice weekly. I was reminded today that God has been faithful to answer our prayers. When I got here in late November, there was little to none of the promises that He had spoken to me previously. But He told me to prophesy to this city, to the valley of dry bones, that the motherlands of the gospel will give birth again. And this brother sitting next to me in church tonight was a fulfillment of those promises - the fruit of those prayers and pioneering steps. He is faithful!<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">With that said, pray that the Lord would give me grace, wisdom and vision to continue to reach <i>outward </i>as opportunities to serve the body have increased. Pray also that I would see and hear where the Lord is leading me this summer and fall, so that I would prepare and order my way towards that end.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
God bless - Love you all!<br />
<br />
Ben</span>Ben Bradfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617150777657747409noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-129835502887134285.post-26917519012346963962011-03-07T19:04:00.002-05:002011-03-08T04:07:15.148-05:00The White City<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Hey friends,<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Forgive me for taking so long to write again. I've been in Belgrade, Serbia for the past week visiting with the other Balkan missionaries from Dwelling Place, and haven't had the opportunity to write until now.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Serbia was amazing. I love Belgrade. For whatever reason, I feel so strongly to just praise God whenever I am there. I think there is so much power in it for that city.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
<i>Let the <sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-16392K" title="See cross-reference K">K</a>)"></sup>high praises of God be in their mouth,</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i> And a <span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 0.5em;"><sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-16392L" title="See cross-reference L">L</a>)"></sup></span>two-edged <span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 0.5em;"><sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-16392M" title="See cross-reference M">M</a>)"></sup></span>sword in their hand,<br />
To <span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 0.5em;"><sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-16393N" title="See cross-reference N">N</a>)"></sup></span>execute vengeance on the nations<br />
And punishment on the peoples,<br />
To bind their kings <span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 0.5em;"><sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-16394O" title="See cross-reference O">O</a>)"></sup></span>with chains<br />
And their <span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 0.5em;"><sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-16394P" title="See cross-reference P">P</a>)"></sup></span>nobles with fetters of iron,<br />
To <span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 0.5em;"><sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-16395Q" title="See cross-reference Q">Q</a>)"></sup></span>execute on them the judgment written;<br />
This is an <span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 0.5em;"><sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-16395R" title="See cross-reference R">R</a>)"></sup></span>honor for all His godly ones.<br />
Praise the LORD! - Psalm 149:6-9<br />
</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Praise is warfare.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
We attended the weekly prayer group meeting Thursday night. I felt the presence of God so strongly when I first entered the apartment of this particular elder's family. I became aware of the honor and privilege it was to know, be in the home of, and intercede alongside the real movers and shakers of Belgrade. Only God could orchestrate such a course. He gives such abundant honor to earthen vessels.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
We had the opportunity to pray for the pastor's wife among others. The church there is definitely under attack, but the Lord gave me a word that the gates of Hades will not prevail against it (Matt. 16:18). The body of Christ in Belgrade will overcome. She said it really carried weight. 4,930 miles across the ocean to speak one word that causes life to be birthed in the body of Christ makes all the warfare worth it. Bethany also received two words in visions that confirmed the very thing two others had prayed in Serbian. There is one Spirit and He's awesome.<br />
<br />
Leaving your city and diving into the body in another city always gives me fresh perspective when I return. It's 1:55am here, so more on that later. Ida ciao.<br />
<br />
Much love,<br />
<br />
Ben</span>Ben Bradfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617150777657747409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-129835502887134285.post-19404868457891557572011-02-20T17:55:00.001-05:002011-02-20T17:58:30.340-05:00Revelation 19:10<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>"For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy."</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
Saturday night and Sunday night, Zoran Spasovski, one of the pastors at Christian Center 490 in Macedonia taught, preached, and ministered concerning the prophetic here in Thessaloniki. I believe it was a very encouraging time for the entire body.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
I don't think I fully understand Revelation 19:10, but I saw at least one aspect of how the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy. The spirit of prophecy releases GRACE. Paul said the Lord had given him authority for building up and not for tearing down (2 Cor. 13:10), and that's exactly what I saw take place in our body these past few nights. As the spirit of prophecy was moving and ministering, people were lifted up to a level they couldn't attain on their own. And that's what Jesus came to do from the Father. He was full of grace and truth. He was always lifting people up, calling them to come up higher, to live at a higher level, above the world, in Him.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
Words started to fail me, so I sketched the image I had in my mind. I felt like the Lord really lifted our body to another level through the spirit of prophecy this weekend. Hope was birthed also with the seeding of His promises.<br />
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Nod0Tskv9cE/TWGZ-RllKcI/AAAAAAAAAMU/U54kOqFQv5I/s1600/grace.pn.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="162" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Nod0Tskv9cE/TWGZ-RllKcI/AAAAAAAAAMU/U54kOqFQv5I/s320/grace.pn.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Much love,<br />
Ben</span></div>Ben Bradfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617150777657747409noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-129835502887134285.post-84868502690196970332011-02-18T10:05:00.002-05:002011-02-18T17:34:52.139-05:00Ezekiel 37:3,10<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>"He said to me, 'Son of man, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 0.5em;"><sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-21401D" title="See cross-reference D">D</a>)"></sup></span>can these bones live?' And I answered, 'O Lord GOD, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 0.5em;"><sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-21401E" title="See cross-reference E">E</a>)"></sup></span>You know.'<br />
So I prophesied as He commanded me, and the <span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 0.5em;"><sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-21408M" title="See cross-reference M">M</a>)"></sup></span>breath came into them, and they came to life and stood on their feet, an <span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 0.5em;"><sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-21408N" title="See cross-reference N">N</a>)"></sup></span>exceedingly great army."<br />
</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I wanted to add these photos of the university campus as a reference for prayer. Pray that we would have favor, open doors, and divine appointments in this place. Pray that the love, joy and presence of God would fill and surround us, attracting people to the abundant life found in Christ Jesus.<br />
<br />
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Kbm6QOMIB_k/TV6I2ZSJ-RI/AAAAAAAAAME/UAFao23qPOw/s1600/_MG_4082.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" height="138" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Kbm6QOMIB_k/TV6I2ZSJ-RI/AAAAAAAAAME/UAFao23qPOw/s320/_MG_4082.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vr7fYrx9qcM/TV6I4Nzxr7I/AAAAAAAAAMI/cumRsRndyMw/s1600/_MG_4084.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" height="128" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vr7fYrx9qcM/TV6I4Nzxr7I/AAAAAAAAAMI/cumRsRndyMw/s320/_MG_4084.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PjNBbk04GzI/TV6I4iv_2UI/AAAAAAAAAMM/UulzY2jQ7AY/s1600/_MG_4087.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" height="157" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PjNBbk04GzI/TV6I4iv_2UI/AAAAAAAAAMM/UulzY2jQ7AY/s320/_MG_4087.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HI5E-hn2fgM/TV6I6H9UqUI/AAAAAAAAAMQ/qQbGFccGMV0/s1600/_MG_4097.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="144" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HI5E-hn2fgM/TV6I6H9UqUI/AAAAAAAAAMQ/qQbGFccGMV0/s320/_MG_4097.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>Ben Bradfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617150777657747409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-129835502887134285.post-44850822261273458192011-02-18T09:30:00.001-05:002011-02-19T07:00:16.383-05:001 John 3:1<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">"See how great a love the Father has bestowed on us, that we would be called children of God"</span></i><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
Man, what can I say? Seeing people being pursued and touched by the living God, Himself is breathtaking. To be a conduit for someone to know and be transformed by God is such an indescribable privilege. What honor He has bestowed upon us. What manner of love this is.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
I met a guy playing basketball a couple of weeks ago. He came to church. Then he wanted to come to Tuesday night prayer. He came. We prayed for Him. The next day he texts me and wants to hang out and pray. I invited him to Thursday night homegroup. He came and he's coming to the Friday night group in Michaniona. He's hungry for God and he needs Him - like we all do. He wants me to bring him back a Bible and some Christian books from Serbia (where I will be visiting in a little over a week).</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
God certainly gives such beauty for ashes (Isaiah 61:3). Tommie, the pastor here, was a self-proclaimed blasphemer before he met the Lord, some 30+ years ago. Now he has worked throughout Europe, planting churches in the Balkans, fathering men and women in the Lord. Zoran was once a heavy-drinker with a propensity for fighting. Now he is pastoring a growing church in Macedonia and ministers to the body of Christ around the world, serving with a strong prophetic gifting.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
God takes blasphemers and violent aggressors, and transforms them into beautiful reflections of Himself (1 Tim. 1:13). And it is not by might nor by power, but by His Spirit (Zech. 4:6). So, continue to pray for us and for the people of this city. The Father always hears us (John 11:42). The bowls of incense in heaven are the prayers of the saints and they will be poured out upon the earth (</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Rev. 5:8, </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Matt. 6:10).</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
Pray that we would be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that we will <sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-29476F" title="See cross-reference F">F</a>)"></sup>walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, <sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-29476G" title="See cross-reference G">G</a>)"></sup>to please Him in all respects, <sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-29476H" title="See cross-reference H">H</a>)"></sup>bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God (Col. 1:9-10).</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
The pastors, teachers, prophets, apostles, and evangelists of the next generation are in this city. The Balkans are pregnant with the children of God. The whole of creation <sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-28139AS" title="See cross-reference AS">AS</a>)"></sup>groans and suffers the pains of childbirth together until now. It longs anxiously, eagerly awaiting the revealing of the sons of God (Rom 8:19-22). Pray that God's will would be done in our lives; that His plans and purposes would be established, and that we would partner together with Him, fulfilling the works that He has prepared beforehand for us to walk in (Eph. 2:10). Please also pray for an abundance of financial provision for all the He desires to do!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
God bless - Love you all!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
Ben</span>Ben Bradfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617150777657747409noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-129835502887134285.post-88147636077768776192011-02-08T15:30:00.000-05:002011-02-08T15:30:10.412-05:00Exodus 30:29<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">"You shall also consecrate them, that they may be most holy; whatever touches them shall be holy."</span></i><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
I've met a handful of guys here so far. Most of them I have met on my own, through tennis or basketball. Some of them want to bring me into their world. I want to bring them into mine.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
In an effort to facilitate this, I wanted to gather some of our guys from church to go see a movie Monday night and invite my friend, Tasos. After talking with the guys at church, it looked like getting everyone together to see a movie that night wasn't going to happen (though there would be other opportunities for my new friends to get to know my brothers in the body in other ways). I let it go.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
Our coffee outreach on the university campus went really well on Monday. At first, it seemed like we were going to be taking home 3 thermoses full of coffee. It didn't seem like anyone wanted free coffee! We were there at least an hour or more without having much conversation with anyone. We discussed giving the rest of it away to the homeless. Then all of a sudden we struck up a conversation with a group of students nearby and a bunch of people started coming. Coffee and conversation started flowing.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
It was so awesome to see our crew interacting with their crew. I could see everyone's unique personalities and giftings flowing together in our group. I just stood there thinking, "I'm so glad Jen is here! And Amy! And Tiffany!" Jen was making everyone laugh. Tiffany was talking to some med students about doctors in Florida. It was so awesome. It felt so safe and it took such a burden off. We exchanged numbers and are looking forward to hanging out with these guys soon.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
After seeing the Lord move so much in our corporate work together, I had thought perhaps that my solo efforts to meet guys may have been in vain, fleshly or illegitimate. That night I was feeling a little anxious so I sat down at the kitchen table, took a deep breath and said, 'Lord, what are </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>You </i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">saying?' Within a few seconds, I get a text from Tasos: 'Hey! Do you like to watch movies? Would you like to go to cinema?' I hadn't said </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>anything </i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">to him about my thoughts to go see a movie with him Monday night and here he is texting me!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
I heard the Lord say, 'Don't forget about Tasos.'</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
Only Jesus. His timing is impeccable. He can redeem anything.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
Please continue to pray for me. I can become easily distracted by the 'unknowns' of the future and lose focus of the call and purpose of this season and today. Pray that I would be filled with the </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 0.5em;"><sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-29475D" title="See cross-reference D">D</a>)"></sup></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">knowledge of His will in all spiritual </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 0.5em;"><sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-29475E" title="See cross-reference E">E</a>)"></sup></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">wisdom and understanding.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
Love you all.</span></span>Ben Bradfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617150777657747409noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-129835502887134285.post-53276102445012364812011-02-02T21:32:00.001-05:002011-02-02T21:33:11.316-05:001 Corinthians 13:5<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Hello friends,<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">This past Tuesday we did our weekly coffee outreach on the university campus. It went really well. We talked for some time with a few girls that were part of the socialist club on campus.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">First of all, I have learned so much about evangelism. The Lord really impressed upon me that love is 'no strings attached,' and I think that<i> </i>giving away free coffee really expresses this facet of love. You want free coffee? Take it. Enjoy it. Be loved. Love doesn't force itself on anyone. Jesus doesn't force His love on anyone. What good does it do me to try to force my beliefs on someone else? Not much, I don't think and that never feels too good on the receiving end. There is only one Author and Finisher of faith, and I just want to stick really close to that Man of love.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">After telling one of the socialist girls that we were working with a church, she said that was good and all, but society is what can/should really help people. I felt the urge to challenge her statement begin to rise up in me, but I felt like I should just let it go. You can be "right," but quickly become "wrong," speaking the right thing in the wrong spirit. "Debating theology" for me has historically been a one-way ticket to the Division Station - especially here. Titus 3:5 is a good one to keep close: "But <sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-29933AC" title="See cross-reference AC">AC</a>)"></sup>avoid <sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-29933AD" title="See cross-reference AD">AD</a>)"></sup>foolish controversies and <sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-29933AE" title="See cross-reference AE">AE</a>)"></sup>genealogies and strife and <sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-29933AF" title="See cross-reference AF">AF</a>)"></sup>disputes about the Law, for they are <sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-29933AG" title="See cross-reference AG">AG</a>)"></sup>unprofitable and worthless."<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I played tennis today with a group of 19 year-old guys from the military university. It was great tennis, especially with this guy, Bobis. He is a really fiesty little player. I really liked his intensity. I think the Lord likes it too. We exchanged numbers, so hopefully we will play again. I've thought a lot lately about the turning point in my life when I really began to follow Jesus after hearing a campus pastor speak back in '05. The Lord probably called that dude and I'm sure it wasn't always easy, but because he was obedient to the call, the course of my life was altered for Jesus forever. I'm not as fiesty as Bobis, but in a way, Bobis is like me, circa 2005. Being thankful for so many of the men and women of God who were faithful to their call and persevered in it, I'm encouraged to keep that in perspective myself. Perhaps Bobis is the next campus pastor or evangelist to the nations? Thank God for an <i>abundance </i>of grace and mercy.<br />
<br />
Please continue to pray for our body, that we would put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity. Pray that we would clothe ourselves with humility toward one another, and that we would be merciful, just as our Father is merciful.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
Please continue to pray for favor and open doors for all of us, as we seek to partner with the Lord in establishing kingdom relationships. Pray also for wisdom and discernment as we steward the relationships we have been entrusted with thus far.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>But You, O Lord, are a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abundant in lovingkindness and truth.</i><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Love you all.</span>Ben Bradfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617150777657747409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-129835502887134285.post-26168247771914206572011-01-26T07:23:00.000-05:002011-01-26T07:23:32.638-05:00Hebrews 1:2<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Hello friends,<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I apologize that it has been so long since I have written. The last week or so has been a battle, personally, and I had allowed that to prevent me from writing. Please forgive me!<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I experienced breakthrough yesterday, just before we went on campus for an outreach. It's hard sometimes for me to put into words what it's like when God breaks in on your heart. I just remember in the midst of the heaviness saying, 'No, Jesus is alive,' and my heart began to believe in the Son again. It's amazing how God comes running with grace, mercy, and a love that brings freedom at even the slightest turn of our hearts towards Him.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">It was then in prayer that morning that I felt the Father speaking over us that we were glorious. Our faith in His Son was so glorious in His eyes. Our little crew of young missionaries, our tiny body of believers here in Thessaloniki, the leadership and body of our church back home, along with many others that are believing in His Son, are so glorious in the eyes of the Father. I could feel His pleasure and delight.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Yesterday was the second time we had done a coffee outreach on campus. Basically, every Tuesday we set-up a table on the campus of the university and give out free coffee. People are intrigued by a handful of Americans giving away free Starbucks. I honestly don't know how to describe it because I think we are all learning how to be genuine, sincere, effective and loving evangelists.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I believe our heart is 2 Cor. 5:20, "Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making an appeal through us; we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God."<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">We have already started to develop a history of relationship among some students after only two weeks. I was talking with Amy about how there is such a unique mix of people that we meet. Some just want free coffee. Some are really inquisitive and perhaps, a little suspicious. Some are sarcastic. Some are genuinely interested in who we are and what we're doing. I believe the Lord is drawing people to Himself through us, and it's cool to see that already. I think even those that are at first suspicious, sarcastic, and just want free coffee, may begin to find themselves drawn aswell.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Thank you so much for praying for me. I cannot emphasize enough how much of an effect your prayers are having. Please continue to pray for our body here; that we would continually love one another and dwell together in unity. Please pray especially for the outreaches on campus. I really believe that the Lord is blessing and moving in the midst of our corporate work.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I have to get ready to leave for a short trip to Macedonia now (pray for that aswell). I'm looking forward to fellowshipping with our sister church there. They are a lot of fun! We hope to return around mid-day Friday.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
I intend to take photos of the university campus when I return so that you have an idea of what it looks like there.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
I love you all! Skype me!</span>Ben Bradfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617150777657747409noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-129835502887134285.post-792869107137337052011-01-12T18:16:00.002-05:002011-01-15T06:26:37.908-05:00John 6:44<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">"No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him; and I will raise him up on the last day."<br />
</span></i><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Last Sunday I was praying about how to spend my day before service in the city at 7:30pm. It was one of those prayer times that feels like you're just talking to yourself. Feeling as though, 'I got nothin,' I decided to take my basketball and hit the courts in Kalmaria, one of the sea-side municipalities downtown.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">To my surprise, there were quite a few people playing on the two, caged-in, full-courts. I walked in through the chain link gate and sat down on a bench as I watched a 2-on-2 game between a group of twenty to thirty-something guys.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
I just sat there. I honestly wasn't sure what to do or say, so I just waited. After a minute or two they finished their game and one of them sat down beside me. I ask him if he spoke English. He did, so I introduced myself. He was a Serb. He asked me what I was doing here. I told him I was working with a church in the city. He said that he went to a Pentecostal church (which is pretty unusual) when he lived in Novi Sad. I asked him if he was attending a church in Thessaloniki. He wasn't and he asked me to text him the address of the Network Community, so that he could come check it out. We exchanged numbers. His buddies then beckoned him from the bench for another game, so we shook hands and parted ways. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
That was easy. I didn't have to do... anything, really.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
I was shooting around by myself on the far goal when a group of three college-aged guys and girls walked on to the adjacent court. I told them that if they needed a fourth man... hmm, fourth man (Dan. 3:25), to let me know. After they warmed up, another guy showed up, so they called me over for a game of 3-on-2. We played a pretty friendly, uneventful, fun game. I figured that was all it was purposed to be. After the game, we shook hands and three of the four departed. However, I noticed the fourth had a tennis racquet in his backpack. I asked him if he played (as if you would carry around a tennis racquet just for kicks...). Of course he did and asked me if I had someone to play with. I definitely don't and I love playing tennis. We exchanged numbers. He also inquired about my business in Thessaloniki, so I told him. He didn't quite understand my description of the church, so he thought he might check it out sometime. We exchanged numbers with a pending tennis engagement for next Sunday.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
That was easy. Again, I didn't really have to do... anything; except perhaps, make myself available, be myself, and let the Holy Spirit do what He wants to do.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The Lord really reminded me that He is absolutely in love with the people of this city. He is really jealous for them and He is doing so much more work than I am likely aware of, drawing many of them unto Himself. I don't need to save them. I can't save them. They don't need Ben Bradford. They need Jesus, the only One who can Author and Perfect their faith.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>"What then is Apollos? And what is Paul? Servants through whom you believed, even as the Lord gave opportunity to each one. I planted, Apollos watered, but God was causing the growth. So then neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but God who causes the growth." - 1 Cor. 3:5-7</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
Please pray specifically:</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
- That Jesus would continue to have first place in everything (Col. 1:18).</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">- That I would be diligent to fulfill what I believe the Lord is calling me to do personally.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">- That Amy, Jen, Kim, and I would be united in fulfilling our corporate call to reach young people.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">- That our relationships within the body would be ordered and develop according to the will of God.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">- That I would be effective in my communication to those interested in my life and work here.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">With this in view:<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I intend to update <b>this blog </b>on a <i>weekly </i>basis, at a minimum, for those interested in more frequent, detailed updates.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I intend to disseminate a <b>newsletter via email </b>on a <i>monthly</i> basis, for those that prefer a more concise, less-frequent update, in that medium.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Please send me your email if you would like to subscribe to the monthly newsletter. My email address is located in the <a href="http://beninthebalkans.blogspot.com/p/about-me_13.html">About Me</a> page.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Much love.</span>Ben Bradfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617150777657747409noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-129835502887134285.post-36696592663681536462011-01-09T18:36:00.000-05:002011-01-09T18:36:58.717-05:00Galatista<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TSozgaEbxII/AAAAAAAAALg/VXAD3z3LM2Y/s1600/_MG_3649.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TSozgaEbxII/AAAAAAAAALg/VXAD3z3LM2Y/s320/_MG_3649.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
Last Thursday, Kim, Annika, and I were invited to Peggy and Argiris' home in Galatista. As far as I understand (which isn't very far when it comes to Greek holidays), January 6th is the national celebration of Epiphany, the visitation of the Magi, and the baptism of Jesus. However, in Galatista, they celebrate the 6th of January a little differently...<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">It goes something like this: Turkish soldiers kidnapped a beautiful young Greek woman from Galatista. In response, the Greeks planned a rescue. They disguised a donkey as a camel and upon arriving at the Turkish outpost, they proceeded to get the soldiers completely drunk with wine. Given their level of intoxication and the ingenious 'trojan' camel, the Greeks were able to smuggle the young Galatistan woman safely home. She then marries her fiancée and they lives happily ever after.<br />
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TSpA8bATylI/AAAAAAAAALs/Lk5cnq-4qHs/s1600/_MG_3889.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TSpA8bATylI/AAAAAAAAALs/Lk5cnq-4qHs/s320/_MG_3889.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
In celebration of this momentous victory, every 6th of January, there is free food in the village square, along with hours of traditional music, dress, and dancing, as the conquering camel is paraded through the streets. This felt like my first real cultural experience in Greece. It was as if I were living one of those exotic Travel Channel shows. I really felt like a foreigner.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I also found myself really absorbed in shooting the festivities with my Canon DSLR, which was a lot of fun. I really enjoyed it, which is something I haven't felt shooting in some time. <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/106053802161043119807/Galatista#">Click here</a> to see more photos.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TSo4OvmpCjI/AAAAAAAAALo/4VOghDfEdtQ/s1600/_MG_4070.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TSo4OvmpCjI/AAAAAAAAALo/4VOghDfEdtQ/s320/_MG_4070.jpg" width="211" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">Peggy</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
Following the celebration, we returned to Peggy and Argiris' home. Due to the challenging financial situation that is quite pervasive in Greece presently, they had to leave their apartment and constructed temporary living quarters in the workshop below his parents' home. I share that just to give you a small idea of what the economic situation is like in Greece.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Argi also showed me his workshop. It's a large metal hangar, a short drive for his parents' home, full of heavy machining equipment, welders, and massive metal lathes from the '50s, built in former-Czechoslovakia. Argiris is somewhat of a machinist by trade, skilled in custom metal fabrication and repair. You see another side of a man when you see him operating masterfully in the element of his profession. You enter into his joy as you watch him do what he loves to do. Argiris may end up selling his shop, tools, and machines, as he and Peggy continue to pray about God's will for them concerning opportunities for financial provision.<br />
</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TSozMkXrD9I/AAAAAAAAALc/s-Tug1JKAEA/s1600/_MG_3866.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="194" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TSozMkXrD9I/AAAAAAAAALc/s-Tug1JKAEA/s320/_MG_3866.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">Annika and Argiris</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
It's been a little over a month that I've been here now and I'm starting to see that the focus of this time has been more about developing relationships with brothers and sisters in the body; and not so much diving into my own ministry. Having real, growing relationships within the body is so necessary to growth and is a conduit for experiencing the love, safety, and security of God through His family.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>'And He <sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-29229A" title="See cross-reference A">A</a>)"></sup>put all things in subjection under His feet, and gave Him as <sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-29229B" title="See cross-reference B">B</a>)"></sup>head over all things to the church, which is His <sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-29230C" title="See cross-reference C">C</a>)"></sup>body, the <sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-29230D" title="See cross-reference D">D</a>)"></sup>fullness of Him who <sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-29230E" title="See cross-reference E">E</a>)"></sup>fills <sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-29230F" title="See cross-reference F">F</a>)"></sup>all in all - Ephesians 1:22-23'<br />
<br />
'...holding fast to the head, from whom the entire body, being supplied and held together by the joints and ligaments, grows with a growth which is from God.' - Col 2:19</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
I've come to realize a certain level of subconscious pride or superiority as an American, especially in things pertaining to God. The Lord has been really good in helping me overcome this.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>'For who regards you as superior? What do you have that you did not receive? And if you did receive it, why do you boast as if you had not received it?' - 1 Cor. 4:7</i><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>'Not that we are adequate in ourselves to consider anything as coming from ourselves, but our adequacy is from God,' - 2 Cor. 3:5<br />
</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>'For both He who <sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-29989E" title="See cross-reference E">E</a>)"></sup>sanctifies and those who <sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-29989F" title="See cross-reference F">F</a>)"></sup>are sanctified are all <sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-29989G" title="See cross-reference G">G</a>)"></sup>from one Father; for which reason He is not ashamed to call them <sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-29989H" title="See cross-reference H">H</a>)"></sup>brethren' - Heb. 2:11<br />
</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I can't really say it any better than those verses. They release so much grace and peace, as they neutralize striving and disarm a spirit of competition.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Thank you so much for your prayers. Please continue praying. It is having a dramatic effect. Also, feel free to message or video chat with me via Skype, as we have the opportunity. My Skype account information is available on the <a href="http://beninthebalkans.blogspot.com/p/about-me_13.html">About Me</a> page.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I love you all.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Ben Bradfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617150777657747409noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-129835502887134285.post-30670738193377928332011-01-04T12:37:00.000-05:002011-01-04T12:37:45.008-05:00ContactsTasos. I met this guy in little souvlaki restaurant about a week ago. He's a 27-year old guy. He lives in Kalamaria (a municipality of Thessaloniki), which is one of the places I play basketball to meet people in the city. He works in this souvlaki place in Peraia for a relative of the family, as I understand it. He's fan of the NBA, or at least, the glory days of American basketball. I believe he also told me that he studied to be a priest when he was younger. He speaks enough English for us to communicate relatively well. In prayer this morning, I felt like I was supposed to buy him one of the NBA action figures I had seen in a store a week or so ago, so I did. I'm not sure yet when I will give it to him.<br />
<br />
I played basketball for the first time in the city today. There wasn't anyone on the courts, as it was perhaps too cold, but it was worth the investment. I prayed for the sons and daughters of Thessaloniki to be born again. I'm looking forward to meeting my new brothers and sisters.<br />
<br />
I met two guys at the bus stop after leaving the courts. One was Canadian and the other was South Korean. The Canadian had a big back-pack on, so it was pretty clear they weren't from Greece. They're exchange students at a university near Zurich in Switzerland. All the European students at their university left to be with family during the holidays, so these two decided to take a backpacking tour of eastern Europe. They asked what I was doing, so I told them I was a missionary here (I think it's safe to say that openly to South Korean and Canadian travelers). I can't say for sure they weren't believers, but I didn't receive the response of a kindred spirit. They seemed pretty lost actually, and I was struck pretty sober by the contrast. Here these guys are looking for a family and I don't think they've been adopted into God's family yet. It made me realize the treasure of the Holy Spirit and Christ in me, the hope of glory. As soon as I got on the bus, I regretted doing so, so quickly. I felt as though I had cut short a God-opportunity, and for what? What am I in a hurry to return to? Oh, well. I prayed, confessed, and repented. There will be more.<br />
<br />
Mike. I decided to ask this dread-locked 25-year old dude that sat next to me on the bus if he spoke English. It turns out, he did, so we had a conversation! He went to cooking school and lives in Peraia aswell, with his parents and younger brothers. He lived in Germany for three years and prefers living there, although his dream is to go to the US. He likes to cook, play soccer, and create hip-hop and electronic music. I told him that I liked electronic music too. He asked me if I liked to listen to trance and go to clubs. I told him that I wasn't big on the club scene, but that I liked Christian electronic music. "What's that?" "Electronic music created under the influence of the Holy Spirit," I told him, "It's the best." "Ok," as he nodded his head. I think he understood me.<br />
<br />
Please pray for all of these guys and continue to pray for us! Pray for wisdom, open doors, and divine appointments. Pray for love, boldness, and sensitivity to the leading of His Spirit. May lots and lots of them come to know Jesus Christ through our love. Most of all, may Jesus have first place in our hearts.Ben Bradfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617150777657747409noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-129835502887134285.post-10433906486471686692011-01-01T00:36:00.004-05:002011-01-01T10:21:06.407-05:00Vision 2011<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TR630A0JgDI/AAAAAAAAAHw/-zkBckkH0H0/s1600/Justin%2527sDSM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="164" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TR630A0JgDI/AAAAAAAAAHw/-zkBckkH0H0/s320/Justin%2527sDSM.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>3rd Gear.<br />
</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Tonight the girls and I attended a New Year's Eve party at the home of Tanya and Stefan. And I just have to say for the record, I feel straight-up loved by this precious, German missionary couple.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">About 45 minutes before midnight, we broke up into small groups. We each shared something that we were thankful for from the past year; as well as, something that we were believing God for in the upcoming year. Then we prayed for one another.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">One of the young ladies in our group was really honest about how she was feeling towards God and people. She said she was starting to feel like she didn't want anything to do with God and like she didn't belong in our fellowship. (Oh, how often have <i>I </i>felt like this? And I'm thankful that God is not shocked by our religious fears) - But as she was vulnerable and brought to light what was in her heart, the Spirit of Truth and the love of God just overwhelmed me. I say the Spirit of Truth because it was so crystal clear to me that a spirit of religion was destroying this woman.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>'For the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.' - 2 Corinthians 3:6</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Only a religious, false view of God would cause you to believe that you would want nothing to do with God and that you don't belong in the body. But the true, living God... now that's another story.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Jesus, the exact image of the invisible God, the expression of the Father and God, Himself; this Man, this King, He is glorious! His eyes burn with flames of fire. He is full of jealous love. Tender mercies and grace flow from Him. His love shatters fear. It covers and fills every broken and hurting place. He gave Himself to forgiveness and His love never fails. He never fails. This Man, and only this Man, Christ Jesus, completes us. He fills all in all.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I felt the <i>power </i>of the love of God as I prayed for this woman. The love of God is so strong. It is so incredibly powerful. It is like a flood of great waters. What can stand against the power of this love? Nothing. It is the great equalizer. It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things, and it never fails. His love levels everything. Insurmountable mountains are brought low and valleys are raised high.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
<i>Comfort, comfort my people, says your God.<br />
Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and proclaim to her<br />
that her hard service has been completed,<br />
that her sin has been paid for,<br />
that she has received from the LORD’s hand double for all her sins.</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>A voice of one calling:<br />
“In the wilderness prepare the way for the LORD<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 0.5em;"><sup class="footnote" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="[<a href="#fen-NIV-18424a" title="See footnote a">a</a>]"></sup></span>;<br />
make straight in the desert a highway for our God.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 0.5em;"><sup class="footnote" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="[<a href="#fen-NIV-18424b" title="See footnote b">b</a>]"></sup></span><br />
Every valley shall be raised up, every mountain and hill made low;<br />
the rough ground shall become level, the rugged places a plain.<br />
And the glory of the LORD will be revealed, and all people will see it together.<br />
For the mouth of the LORD has spoken.” - Isaiah 40:3-5</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i><br />
</i>Hmm, 'Comfort my people, says your God,' 'her sin has been paid for'<br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>'in the</i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>wilderness </i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">prepare the way for the Lord,' </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
'Make straight <i>in the desert</i> a <i>highway </i>for our God.' Interesting...</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i></i><br />
<b>Downshift into 2nd gear.</b><br />
<br />
I've been praying for vision as I try to find my purpose here. I believe I'm here for young people. Especially, brothers.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><br />
</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>Down again, into 1st.</b><br />
<br />
His word that sent me here was, Song of Solomon 1:8, 'Go forth on the trail of the flock and pasture your young goats by the tents of the shepherds.'<br />
<br />
<b>Back in to 2nd.</b><br />
<br />
Since I've been here, I've been struggling to find my place. I've been searching for the trail, the flock, the young goats, and the shepherds, but they're not here!<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I think the girls from Dwelling Place and I are the only consistent church members under the age of 30 - no 'young' goats to pasture, and need I say, no bro's? Part of our flock is out of the country and one of the shepherds is in Sweden with a whirlwind tour abroad in the weeks to come. And concerning the trail, Tommie's words to me were, 'Back in the States, the roads are already dug and paved. Here, you have to make your own road.'<br />
<br />
Hmm, this sounds like a wilderness, or a desert, or a valley of dry bones...<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">And I hear Him say, <i>'Son of man, can these bones live?'<br />
</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>The hand of the Lord was upon me, and He brought me out by the Spirit of the Lord and set me down in the middle of the valley; and it was full of bones...</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>Again He said to me, "Prophesy over these bones, and say to them, 'O dry bones, hear the word of the Lord.'</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>"Thus says the Lord God to these bones, 'Behold, I will cause breath to enter you that you may come to life. And I will put sinews on you, make flesh grow back on you, cover you with skin, and put breath in you that you may come alive; and you will know that I am the Lord.'"<br />
So I prophesied as He commanded me, and the breath came into them, and they came to life, and stood on their feet, an exceedingly great army. - Ezekiel 37: 1,3-6, 10<br />
</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">So we will prophesy the word of the Lord to this valley of dry bones. <a href="http://naumannnews.wordpress.com/about/">'The motherlands of the gospel shall give birth again.'</a> They shall give birth by the Spirit, for<i> the Jerusalem above is free; she is our mother. - Galatians 4:26</i><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>Redlining 2nd. Hit 3rd gear.<br />
</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><i>For the love of Christ <span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 0.5em;"><sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-28892B" title="See cross-reference B">B</a>)"></sup></span>controls us, having concluded this, that <span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 0.5em;"><sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-28892C" title="See cross-reference C">C</a>)"></sup></span>one died for all, therefore all died - 2 Corinthians 5:14</i> </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span"></span><i>And I, if I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to Myself. - John 12:32</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
I don't know if anyone has ever been theologically debated into the kingdom of God. I know I wasn't. People manifested the love of God to me and led me to the Man that manifested the love of God to the world. Then I began to manifest the love of God to people.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">And so armed with the Spirit and the power of the love of God, we will clear the way for the LORD in the wilderness; make smooth in the desert a highway for our God. Let every valley be lifted up, and every mountain and hill be made low. Let the rough ground become a plain, and the rugged terrain a broad valley. Then the </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-18426C" title="See cross-reference C">C</a>)"></sup></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">glory of the LORD will be revealed, and </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-18426D" title="See cross-reference D">D</a>)"></sup></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">all flesh will see it together; for the </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-18426E" title="See cross-reference E">E</a>)"></sup></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">mouth of the LORD has spoken.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
Pray for us as we prophesy to the rising army in this land and live to love people into the kingdom of God through His Spirit.</span>Ben Bradfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617150777657747409noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-129835502887134285.post-67726823081432464302010-12-28T22:45:00.000-05:002010-12-28T22:45:08.121-05:00Weakness<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I just wanted to take this opportunity to be real about an aspect of what it's like to live as a missionary in a foreign country for those that haven't yet or may someday. If you know me very well, then this post probably doesn't apply to you, but given that I use this blog to communicate to a diverse audience, specifically through writing, I will take the time to speak this. I also want to speak especially to every young person that believes God has called them to do great and wondrous things with Him on the earth. If you know Jesus, then that's true for you, whether you realize it yet or not.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Maybe you don't think at all like me, but if you do, you may have once or twice, pined after the glorious dream of life on the mission field. No longer working the nine-to-five grind, sustained by the giving of others, leaving the troubles of every-day life, and wholly devoting yourself to the glorious work of the ministry. Praying without ceasing, ministering the word of truth to the hurting and broken, and receiving the tender affections of Jesus as He pats you on the head after a full day of feeding orphans and healing the sick, you curl up in bed to dream sweet revelations delivered by the ministry of His angels.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Now, I'm not saying that I don't or haven't experienced those things, and if my life is off course for not experiencing that 24/7, then I receive the prayers you are about to pray. Also do not be afraid that I have slipped into deep gloom and depression. On the contrary, the Lord is meeting me in powerful ways and He is doing incredible works my midst.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">However, I do happen to be aware that, especially young people, who desire to follow the Lord in a genuine way can become disillusioned by reading the accounts of people in ministry if they are written or communicated in a particular light. I don't want to paint a rose-colored picture of what's happening here or what it's like to be in missions, especially for those the Lord may call or be calling, to missions or any other new sphere of ministry.<br />
<br />
Things can get really tough sometimes and I think it's important for young people to know that a) so that they don't disqualify themselves from responding to the call of God due to their own perceived weakness, and b) so that they don't condemn themselves or give up in ministry due to a false perception or standard. Weakness doesn't make you any less called or any less adequate to fulfill the call of God. It makes you a prime candidate for the power of God.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
<br />
<i>But we have this treasure in <span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 0.5em;"><sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-28867T" title="See cross-reference T">T</a>)"></sup></span>earthen vessels, so that the surpassing greatness of <span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 0.5em;"><sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-28867U" title="See cross-reference U">U</a>)"></sup></span>the power will be of God and not from ourselves... For momentary, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 0.5em;"><sup class="xref" style="line-height: 0.5em;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-28877AN" title="See cross-reference AN">AN</a>)"></sup></span>light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison </i>- 2 Cor. 4:7-17</span>Ben Bradfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617150777657747409noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-129835502887134285.post-33147637837309016782010-12-28T19:45:00.000-05:002010-12-28T19:45:15.775-05:00ThassosIt's been too long since I've written. Forgive me!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TRqBeZPG2QI/AAAAAAAAAHk/xT7gQ-XzqIs/s1600/LR-0110.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TRqBeZPG2QI/AAAAAAAAAHk/xT7gQ-XzqIs/s320/LR-0110.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
On the 16th, Annika, Kim and I had the opportunity to travel to the island of Thassos to continue building relationship with another church that was hosting an evangelistic outreach. Dimitris is the pastor, aided by Kenneth and Leona, another missionary couple from Sweden.<br />
<br />
One of their church's short-term worship leaders, <a href="http://www.myspace.com/ristholm">Mattias Ristholm</a>, together with another Swedish folk musician, Anders Peev, form the traditional folk duo, <i>Anda. </i>They performed several Swedish folk ballads in a historic stone and wood-beamed event hall in downtown Thassos. Surpisingly, many of them were nothing short of worship songs. I felt the presence of God and various impressions from the Holy Spirit throughout the night. Kenneth shared his testimony at the conclusion of the concert and gave an invitation for others to consider the surrender of their lives to Jesus.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TRqBo8m3pSI/AAAAAAAAAHo/YWcBkUGrxX0/s1600/LR-0096.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="293" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TRqBo8m3pSI/AAAAAAAAAHo/YWcBkUGrxX0/s320/LR-0096.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Kim and I befriended to two young, American-born Greek guys, Augi and Theo. They run the island's premier tourist website, www.Go-Thassos.gr. It was great making contact with young people from outside the church. We exchanged numbers and were encouraged to touch base with them on our next return to Thassos. These were great guys to talk to and have a lot of connections on and around the island.<br />
<br />
Pray for these guys; that the Lord would soften their hearts, that they would have a revelation of Jesus Christ, that the kingdom of God would come upon them, and they be saved. As Tommie encourages us, these connections with young people are like gold. Even as I write this, I'm reminded to not despise the day of small beginnings - remembering these two in prayer specifically, stewarding-well what has been entrusted to me so far. I think, I can get lost in dreaming of fantastic outpouring and sweeping revival - which is awesome, but speaks something else if I'm not actively, intentionally pursuing the one or two God-ideas and relationships that He has given me to start with. He who is faithful in a very little thing is faithful also in much.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TRqCK7V1L1I/AAAAAAAAAHs/d6j_egIaxCE/s1600/LR-0099.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TRqCK7V1L1I/AAAAAAAAAHs/d6j_egIaxCE/s320/LR-0099.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">left to right: Kenneth, Annika, Mattias' wife and child, Anders, Kim</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
This trip to Thassos was also a step in following through with past talk between our churches of developing further partnership. I really enjoyed staying with Kenneth and Leona; as well as, hanging out with Dimitris, Mattias, and Anders after the event. God knows where He will take these relationships, but they have to start somewhere!<br />
<br />
I also instigated a snowball fight with two little kids on the street. It was awesome.Ben Bradfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617150777657747409noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-129835502887134285.post-56505545454795449872010-12-13T18:40:00.000-05:002010-12-13T18:40:16.760-05:001 Corinthians 12<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 16px;"></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">'Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">And there are varieties of ministries, and the same Lord.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">There are varieties of effects, but the same God who works all things in all persons.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">'<br />
</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TQask1tXxRI/AAAAAAAAAHU/OyoUX9qDH4o/s1600/IMG_0085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TQask1tXxRI/AAAAAAAAAHU/OyoUX9qDH4o/s320/IMG_0085.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Argiris breaks</td></tr>
</tbody></table><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
Crack! The cue ball strikes the apex of the pyramid in one of downtown Peraia's pool halls. Argiris and Stefan, two of the men on the servant leadership team</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i> </i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">at Network Community, took me out for a little 'guy-time' following Friday's home group meeting in the neighboring town of Michaniona. I would learn that 'solids and stripes' to an American are 'one color and two colors' to a Greek and 'full and half' to a German. A variety of names, but the same game.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I had asked Argiris to give me some advice on how to improve my pool game. He proceeded to explain to me the elementary rules of play. Realizing that something seemed to have been lost in translation, I began to nod dismissively, thinking, 'Yes, yes, I know that already.' No sooner had that thought crossed my mind, than when he told me a very simple rule that I didn't know. Humbled, I realized that I have a lot to learn from these brothers of mine.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">After a handful of games (I won't bother disclosing the winner here. Hint: It wasn't me...), we retired to Annika's apartment where we enjoyed one another's company with their respective wives, Peggy and Tanya. Later in the evening, Peggy began to share her heart about what she felt like the Lord was speaking to her and Argi, given their present living situation. As a result of the economic crisis in Greece, many that do find work often go unpaid for quite some time. Consequently, Argi and Peggy have had to make some tough choices - one of which, is moving into Argi's unfinished workshop beneath his father's home. As things are presently, time appears to be waning before other decisions must be made. Regardless, they are determined to seek the Lord and yield themselves to His word, despite their circumstances.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Tanya began sharing a testimony of how the Lord had given her supernatural peace in the midst of a physical trial that she walked through some time ago. As she and Annika shared the treasures of wisdom from their own hearts, it was as if the Lord was pouring the solidity of His wisdom and truth into the foundations of my inner man. It felt so good to receive of such a familiar spirit of wisdom and revelation, in an otherwise foreign land, with otherwise foreign people.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">It's funny how you think you can know a person or a people group based on a handful of surface-level interactions or stereotypical worldly judgments. However, when these brothers and sisters begin to share their lives with you, you realize they have an entire history in the Lord - a rich history - that you know very little about. And not just <i>the </i>Lord, but the <i>same </i>Lord.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
Who is the missionary again?<br />
<br />
'Therefore from now on we recognize no one according to the flesh'<br />
'For even as the body is one and yet has many members, and all the members of the body, though they are many, are one body, so also is Christ. For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body, whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free, and we were all made to drink of one Spirit. For the body is not one member, but many.'</span>Ben Bradfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617150777657747409noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-129835502887134285.post-87705083312571456302010-12-07T18:50:00.013-05:002010-12-07T19:43:54.610-05:00Romans 8:28It's Tuesday night and we have just returned home to Perea from intercessory prayer at church in Thessaloniki. It seemed for me personally, a very peaceful, simple, yet powerful<i> </i>time of worship and prayer. Through the battles of the mind that have raged at various points during my transition here, I've found very simple prayers to be the most liberating and effective. He doesn't need my flowery language. He hears the cries of the heart from His sons and daughters.<br />
<br />
Yesterday, Tommie and I played tennis at a park not far from our house. It felt very good to exercise and have fun doing something I enjoy. After sharing this with Tommie, he agreed and said that he didn't subscribe to a 'martyr mentality' in missions. 'You should do things you enjoy,' he said. This is a healthy reminder for someone like me. This time spent playing tennis also happened to be a bit of a turning point for me. I was reminded that from now on, it has to be His words that define me. Duh, right? Strange how subtly I can drift from that. <i>'Sanctify them in truth; Your word is truth' - John 17:17.</i><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TP7MyM554XI/AAAAAAAAAG0/nCDYnD826dQ/s1600/IMG_0049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TP7MyM554XI/AAAAAAAAAG0/nCDYnD826dQ/s320/IMG_0049.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kim, Danielle (Belgrade), and I</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
I forgot to mention my time in Skopje last week. Let's just say that spending time, not only with famliar faces, but with true friends, was a welcome gift. It was so much fun - so peaceful and relaxing - to just sit in Bethany's home and just... <i>be ... </i>with one another. There were many times where conversation, prayer, games, or worship would end and we would just sit in silence, in the peace of God with each other. It was really refreshing. It was sad to leave Jon, Danielle, and Bethany because I've come to love them so much, but it was clear that we had been renewed during that time for a purpose. I look forward to seeing them all again soon.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TP7N0fS-f4I/AAAAAAAAAG8/s8jtZhBCk6g/s1600/IMG_0054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TP7N0fS-f4I/AAAAAAAAAG8/s8jtZhBCk6g/s320/IMG_0054.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jen, Bethany (Macedonia), and John (Belgrade)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TP7NIOZRt9I/AAAAAAAAAG4/QNlW76f5Pdc/s1600/IMG_0065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TP7NIOZRt9I/AAAAAAAAAG4/QNlW76f5Pdc/s320/IMG_0065.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Stone Bridge over the river Vardar in Skopje, Macedonia</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
To be honest, Skopje was incredibly intimidating to me at first. It felt entirely different from Thessaloniki, although I came to feel much more comfortable after being there for a day or so. I traveled with Bethany, Jen, and John to a relatively small town outside the city, called Veles. I met Ane and his family, one of the leaders in a 'Glasnost' church plant from Skopje. Ane, a skilled martial artist with a violent history before coming to know the Lord, now helps disciple young people in a town where the most prolific work is trafficking hard drugs. Despite the apparent darkness, it's clear God is moving in the hearts of people there. You could see hope and the light of God on the face of a woman in their fellowship who is conquering brain cancer. Jesus prevails, praise God.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TP7PFCnuNGI/AAAAAAAAAHA/GnP0WTB6bd0/s1600/IMG_0061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TP7PFCnuNGI/AAAAAAAAAHA/GnP0WTB6bd0/s320/IMG_0061.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stadium in Veles, Macedonia</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
I feel more and more grounded as time passes here. Thank the Lord, I believe He is really knitting our body together here as one soul, in Him. Fellowship is a beautiful thing that I am really grateful for. I am most thankful for the peace that He is solidifying within me.<br />
<br />
Tommie, the girls, and I, met up with Femi, a member of our church, who is finishing his doctorate at the university. He gave us a brief tour of the campus, as we observed and surveyed the landscape. Let me tell you, American college students, be grateful for the facilities that you enjoy. All college campuses are not created equal. A history of student protests, at times violent, has led to legislation that prohibits police from entering the campus. Drug abuse and anarchism leave a distinct impression. We are praying that the Lord will apprehend those wild at heart to be radical for Jesus and His kingdom.<br />
<br />
As I was walking on campus, I felt overwhelmed at times, thinking, 'How in the world are we going to impact the people on this campus?' I was reminded that it is by faith, we understand the worlds were made; therefore, anything we do on that campus must be by faith in Him and His working. We prayed for a few minutes, left Femi to his obligations, and went on our way into the city.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TP7TOSWC97I/AAAAAAAAAHE/-y6azSTTqRw/s1600/IMG_0079.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TP7TOSWC97I/AAAAAAAAAHE/-y6azSTTqRw/s320/IMG_0079.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Starbucks near the church of Panagias Dexias in Kamara, Thessaloniki</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
I stopped to withdraw money from a particularly hungry ATM that decided my debit card tasted really good. Upon turning around and informing the rest of my party that my card had been consumed, a young Cretian student named Philip, waiting in line behind me, testified to the fate of my card and offered some information. This brief commentary lead to an introduction that turned into a meeting for coffee with his friend and the rest of our crew later that evening. Coffee went well and we agreed to meet again for a meal sometime in the future. I hope we all gain another friend.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TP7T3_kSYZI/AAAAAAAAAHI/-a6mPb8EH7s/s1600/IMG_0080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TP7T3_kSYZI/AAAAAAAAAHI/-a6mPb8EH7s/s320/IMG_0080.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Roman arch of Galerius in Kamara, Thessaloniki</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Tommie read Philippians 1:12 this morning, 'Now I want you to know, brethren, that my circumstances have turned out for the greater progress of the gospel,' and prayed that we would have this attitude also. It was so cool to see the Lord's hand at work, immediately giving us such a divine appointment with two young university students - something that has been prayed for continually - that we would probably have never met, had my card not been eaten and destroyed. 'How are we going to make an impact on the people on this campus?' Pray and watch Him work.<br />
<br />
He reminded me of His own jealous love for me when He saved me on a college campus, some five years ago. He sent a persistent 'Andrew' to my 'Peter,' leading me to Jesus (John 1:42). Now I have the opportunity to be an Andrew to, hopefully many, 'Peters.' I imagined Peter meeting Jesus for the first time. Peter knew nothing about Jesus, but Jesus knew everything about Peter. Jesus chose him and that's all that mattered. If Peter only knew the work that God would do in His life.<br />
<br />
<i>'Faithful is He who calls you, and He also will bring it to pass.'</i> - 1 Thess. 5:24<br />
<br />
Thank you for your continued prayer and support. Your prayers are making a powerful impact - please continue in them!<br />
- Pray for Daki, that the peace of God would guard her heart and mind in Christ Jesus, and that she would be completely healed from cancer.<br />
- Pray for Philip and his friend Satiris, that the will of God would be done in their lives.<br />
- Pray that our body would continue to be knit together in the love and grace of God, and that the fellowship of our faith would become effective through the knowledge of every good thing which is in us for Christ's sake.<br />
<br />
Thank you for your grace and mercy as I learn how to manage my time here and communicate effectively. I look forward to hearing from you! Let me know how <i>you </i>are doing!<br />
<br />
In His love,<br />
<br />
BenBen Bradfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617150777657747409noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-129835502887134285.post-33798317130058333222010-11-30T23:15:00.001-05:002010-12-05T06:26:56.602-05:00I just wanted to write a 'quick' update before leaving for Skopje tomorrow evening.<br />
<br />
Today ended up being a fantastic day.<br />
<br />
Tommie took me to get a SIM card for the cell phone he is letting me use while I am here. I didn't realize the degree to which I had relied on my cell, as my watch, alarm clock, planner and means of local communication, until it was gone for 72 hours. Needless to say, it's nice to have those luxuries back.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TPXH31Ae8NI/AAAAAAAAAGA/reo7Gl9xV7M/s1600/LR-0013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="217" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TPXH31Ae8NI/AAAAAAAAAGA/reo7Gl9xV7M/s320/LR-0013.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">(clockwise left to right: Kenneth, Tommie, Kim, Jen)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Tommie left for the Middle East for a few days, leaving his vehicle at my/our disposal. I have to admit, I was quite nervous about driving Tommie's car on these streets, and though it was definitely a baptism by fire when he left me at the airport to navigate my way through downtown Thessaloniki, it ended up being a huge confidence booster. Praise God Almighty, He lead me directly to Aristotelos Square, where I was to meet up with Kim and Jen, without having any real idea how to get there; even providing a parking space just feet from the main road across the street from the Square.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TPXI1Mk1INI/AAAAAAAAAGE/JqIXH-IBlsk/s1600/LR-0020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="183" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TPXI1Mk1INI/AAAAAAAAAGE/JqIXH-IBlsk/s320/LR-0020.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
After meeting up with the girls, I had my first gyro platter at the intern-famous restaurant, Spata. Having not really eaten dinner the night before, it made my first gyro in Greece, exceptionally delicious.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TPXI6N1OakI/AAAAAAAAAGI/pTWue4doeeU/s1600/LR-0022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TPXI6N1OakI/AAAAAAAAAGI/pTWue4doeeU/s320/LR-0022.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
With intercessory prayer in town at the church at 7:00pm, the girls and I spent most of the day exploring some of the town around the Square. It was great to finally get my feet on the ground and really get <i>in </i>to the city. I think there's something about all the people interacting that energizes me in a way. Worship and intercession seems to happen almost naturally, walking through the city. They've been some of my favorite moments here.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TPXI-FUa4GI/AAAAAAAAAGc/Q3mUfRBUeIw/s1600/LR-0026.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TPXI-FUa4GI/AAAAAAAAAGc/Q3mUfRBUeIw/s320/LR-0026.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
After I ate at Spata, we decided to get coffee and just relax for a bit, as we waited for the cell phone store to re-open. Most businesses close roughly between 2:30pm and 5:30pm for 'siesta' time. It was good for the three of us to spend some time just talking, laughing, and enjoying hanging out with one another, as we adjust to life here.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TPXJJQ9S8oI/AAAAAAAAAGs/K_GhLYGOJa0/s1600/LR-0032.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TPXJJQ9S8oI/AAAAAAAAAGs/K_GhLYGOJa0/s320/LR-0032.jpg" width="260" /></a></div><br />
I've realized there are fewer things on this earth that I enjoy more than interceding with brothers and sisters in prayer. I think one of the reasons that I love it so much is because you can see the unity and fellowship of the Spirit of God in action right before your eyes. You pray what people are thinking without knowing it. You see what people are praying before they pray it. Though people pray in a language you do not know, you can feel the power of God on their prayers. It was great to meet a handful of new friends and have the opportunity to 'do the stuff' - the fun stuff! - alongside them.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TPXJNVqlmBI/AAAAAAAAAGw/a2xXUHJ1WLA/s1600/LR-0039.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TPXJNVqlmBI/AAAAAAAAAGw/a2xXUHJ1WLA/s320/LR-0039.jpg" width="214" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Femi and his son, BJ</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
Afterwards, Jen, Kim, and I came back to Tommie's, had a really profitable time sharing what was on our hearts and spent the remainder of the night laughing about things that will likely not soon be forgotten. "Tom Foolery? Who is that?"<br />
<br />
I picked-up Amy from the Airport a couple of hours ago. It's good to see her and have her back here from Sweden. I'm looking forward to getting into the swing of things with everyone, although much of the team will soon be leaving for Christmas.<br />
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Jen, Kim, and I will be headed to Skopje tomorrow to spend time with Bethany, Jon, and Danielle, through Friday. I'm really excited to have the chance to spend some time and just enjoy them.<br />
<br />
Please pray for the three of us as we travel to Skopje. Pray that we would have favor and traveling mercies as we cross the border to and from Skopje. Pray that our time together is all that the Lord would have it be.<br />
<br />
Pray for Tommie as he travels to the Middle East through Sunday. Pray for those in authority within the church that they would be given a spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of His will, and that they would not grow weary in doing good. Pray that we would fervently love one another from the heart and be unified.<br />
<br />
Please also pray specifically for me, Jen and Kim - that we would rest in His grace and trust Him, simply loving God and others as we adjust to life here.<br />
<br />
God bless you. I love you all. Please tell me how <i>you</i> are doing!<br />
<br />
Ben<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TPXJF-2lbhI/AAAAAAAAAGk/Na6HD5HlxT8/s1600/LR-0031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="171" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_vWS_u3WEVCI/TPXJF-2lbhI/AAAAAAAAAGk/Na6HD5HlxT8/s320/LR-0031.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thessaloniki Bay</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Ben Bradfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617150777657747409noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-129835502887134285.post-87418556922894331832010-11-28T18:32:00.002-05:002010-11-30T17:17:09.322-05:00Psalm 84:10<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">"For a day in Your courts is better than a thousand outside."<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Wow. I am in awe of God's faithfulness.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Kim and I made is to Thessaloniki without any hitch. Tommie (the pastor), Annika (one of the missionary worship leaders), and Jen (one of the Dwelling Place missionaries) were there to pick us up from the airport right on time.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">They drove us straight to their little 'missionary community' in the town of Perea; which can't be more than 15 minutes from the airport. Tommie, Annika, and the DP missionaries (Amy, Jen, and Kim) all have separate apartments within close walking distance of each other in this little town.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">While Kim got settled in at her place, Tommie took me for hot chocolate at Joy Bar - a little seaside restaurant just down the street. It was a good time to sit, relax, and talk for a bit before heading to church in downtown Thessaloniki at 7:00pm.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">It was great to see many of the familiar faces that I had met during my visit with the interns in 2008 - Eva and Costas, Argy and Peggy, Dimitra, and Stravoula; as well as, many new faces. I was encouraged at how much more confident they were in their faith and identities in the Lord. They were noticeably more confident as they functioned with courage and purpose in their roles, serving within the body.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">At first, I found it difficult to press-in and connect with the Lord during worship. The songs were familiar worship songs; however, when everyone is singing in Greek, it can be a little difficult to worship with my mind, singing in English. So, I stopped trying to do that for a bit and decided to sing in the Spirit. I don't remember exactly what happened... I believe a slightly potent mixture of humility, spontaneous praise, declaration, and adoration of the person of Jesus, released just a touch of His presence that comforted my heart in such a powerful way. What an unfathomable gift, that God would give us Himself, to live within us and walk among us, so that no matter where on earth we might be, Christiansburg, Virginia or Thessaloniki, Greece - He is there.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Dimitri, a guest speaker and pastor from the island of Thassos, shared an encouraging, insightful word on Elijah's character, as man with a nature like ours, full of weakness; however, zealous in his obedience to the word of the Lord, in the midst of intensely oppressive circumstances. I really appreciated Dimitri's own honesty and candidness about his difficulties this year, as the apostle Paul unreservedly admitted to being, "afflicted on every side: conflicts without, fears within." It releases such a burden from those that look up to people in leadership when they realize that individuals and families in 'ministry' are not without their own real struggles.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I was reminded tonight that there is nothing better than Jesus and being in the presence of God. He is beautiful and glorious, and He's what this life is all about. Every relationship and every purpose of God comes together when you have Him. Every need is met. Apart from Him we can do nothing, but in Him, all things hold together and we bear much fruit.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I'm looking forward to meeting with Tommie and the rest of the missionaries tomorrow for a time of strategy, instruction, vision-casting, etc.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I'm so grateful for the opportunity to be a part of what God is doing here. Thank you so much for your continued prayer and support.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
I wish you Jesus.<br />
<br />
Love, Ben.</span>Ben Bradfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617150777657747409noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-129835502887134285.post-80127926008001894362010-11-23T17:40:00.019-05:002010-11-25T14:32:08.314-05:00<div><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">'Your eyes saw my unformed body; <br />
all the days ordained for me were written in your book <br />
before one of them came to be. <br />
<span class="Apple-style-span">How amazing are your thoughts concerning me, O</span> God! <br />
How vast is the sum of them!' (Psalm 139:16-17)<br />
</span></i><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I will be enjoying the rest of the week at my parents' home in</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> Fredericksburg, VA for Thanksgiving before meeting up with my friend and fellow missionary, Kim Bonner at Dulles International Airport, Saturday, November 27th. Our flight is scheduled to depart at 5:50pm, ultimately arriving at our destination in Thessaloniki around 2:45pm Sunday, November 28th, following a brief layover in Frankfurt.</span><br />
<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I'm really looking forward to a time of fruitful fellowship with family; as well as, time to rest in the Lord and spend time with Him in the word, as I prepare my heart for what lies ahead. I'm tremendously excited about what the Lord has in store in Greece and in the time leading up to our departure. What He is doing is always good. I'm excited about seeing the other DP missionaries; as well as, reconnecting with Tommie and the church in Thessaloniki. I'm looking forward to being in community with my brothers and sisters there as we pursue the Lord together.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I'm incredibly grateful for the overwhelming emotional, prayerful, and financial support that I have received. Praise God, I have already met my prospective budget for my time in Thessaloniki! Thank you so much for your love and faithful giving. May the Lord bless you and cause you to abundantly increase in all that He would do together with you.</span><br />
<div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i><br />
</i></span></div></div></div></div>Ben Bradfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617150777657747409noreply@blogger.com0