Hard Lives

Last week I returned from a superb trip to Russia. There were a lot of smiles, a lot of hugs, lots of memories shared and plenty of good food shared. Friends are friends because they go through life together – holding on to each other in painful times and rejoicing together in good times.

As special as the time together with orphans and colleagues was, I’m often slapped back to the reality that life can be so hard.  That happened this morning when I received a message from Russia that reminds me of the importance of praying for the young people we are called to serve. This was the message:

“Would you pray for one of our Kurlovo Orphanage grads – a couple of years ago he and his wife were part of the Orphan’s Tree Young Families Program. His name is Misha, he and Tanya got married when they were pretty young and now they have 5 children (ranging from seven years to two months old). Last week they found out that Tanya had cancer in the last stage and would likely die within the next week. Doctors refused to do anything as they said there was no hope, and they sent her home to say goodbye to the kids. This morning she passed away. Please, cover them with your prayer. Thank you so much and God bless.”

My heart breaks when I hear about young children losing their mother. This family, who had overcome so much, now is facing life without their beloved wife and mother. That is truly hard.

“Lord, in this hour be with this young family. We don’t know how to pray. But today we trust you to be their Father. Merciful Father, provide for Misha comfort, strength and wisdom as he faces such a difficult future.  Watch over their children. Protect them and keep them safe. Help them. And let us know how we, your people, can extend your care and compassion to them. We bring this request to you in the name of our savior, Jesus Christ.”