Eskisehir isn’t exactly a worldwide tourist destination. People are generally very surprised that we are here, and even shocked to hear that we are here for two full weeks. Our mere presence is apparently intriguing- why would we want to come here? When we were praying into our time in Eskisehir, we knew we were being called to relationships.
As we have been going out for ATL, the team has been making connections and building friendships with people we meet. We have spent a good deal of our time just hanging out- listening to people’s stories and getting to know Turkey as the locals know it. Hanging out is fun, but in light of the gospel, it seemed to me extremely inefficient and a little unfulfilling. Knowing that 98% of the people here do not know the Gospel, it made more sense to be “to the point.” It didn’t feel like our hangouts or short conversations had much impact in the spiritual, especially if we were not able to share the Gospel. Besides, that’s what it’s all about, right? The Spirit calls all this into question, consistently leading me into conversations and encounters when I don’t see the fruit I desire. Why then am I actually here? How can I make a difference? What is God’s goal for my time here?
First, I thought it was for people to be saved. When I didn’t see that happen, God told me that wasn’t the goal.
Then, I thought it was to just share the gospel- to explicitly tell people the name and message of Jesus. But that wasn’t always a guarantee either.
Then, I thought at the very least, God wanted me to invest in conversation. As long as it was a meaningful conversation, it was worth my time. That wasn’t it either.
It seemed that all of my ideas about efficiency and accomplishment weren’t actually lining up with His heart. I was placing undue pressure on myself, and creating standards that were actually contrary to how the Spirit was moving. It was extremely frustrating. “God, isn’t there anything I can do? What even is my purpose here? What is the work you want me to do here?” I need a goal, I need something to seek after. Maybe you do too.
There’s special instruction for people like us:
“But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you as well.”
“One thing I have asked of the Lord, that I will seek after: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord and to inquire in his temple.”
(Matt. 6:33, Psalm 27:4)
It seems that God’s only desire for me is to pursue Him and His kingdom: to consistently return to His presence and love him. In constantly being refilled by him, I am able to constantly pour him out- no matter what I’m doing. I have to have faith, knowing that whatever opportunities He opens- a gospel conversation, a healing or prophetic word, or simply a smile- will accomplish the fruit that He desires.
The other night, the team hosted a gamenight at our AirB&B- complete with sweets and Turkish mezze. We brought together all of our individual connections to a single place for fun and sharing.
We met J on our first night here. She works at a fast food restaurant and is very kind.
D is a barista at one of our favorite coffee shops.
While offering “free English practice” in the park, A and O approached and started conversation. They are very hospitable and love showing us their city.
We met F at the climbing gym here. He’s a little shy about his english skills, but is a kind gentleman toward us.
Y runs our AirB&B. He is very helpful and always makes sure we have everything we need.
Our friends all have such unique stories and worldviews. Some have heard the entirety of the Gospel and are asking questions. Others are on the verge of curiosity. With others, we are content to simply spend time together, modeling Christ in our actions and relationships with each other. We have placed each of them in the hands of the Father, confident that we will have the opportunity to share the entire Gospel in His timing, and that His word does not return void. We are at peace knowing that we have obeyed the Father and pursued his children like he does.
What about you? Where do you find yourself today? Overworked and exhausted or satisfied and joyful? Are you striving, or are you abiding?
Please take a moment to pray for our remaining time in Eskisehir:
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We love our friends and want them to know the truth. Please pray for softened hearts, open ears, and supernatural curiosity.
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We need God! Please pray for sweet encounters with God’s presence, and for constant refillings of the Holy Spirit.
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We are anticipating Gospel conversations! Please pray for discernment in timing and Holy Spirit presence.
So amazed by you! God is so good and will give answers when you simply surrender and pray to him.. like what?! So amazing to hear about how He has guided y’all.
There is such joy and freedom when you rely on God and allow yourself to simply be His instrument. You all are leaving His fingerprint everywhere you go and on everyone you meet! Praying for you all!