soup eaten not nearly so hot as it was coocked!

God answeres prayer!
I informed you of the struggles of my dear friends and fellow-missionaries in Romania: Robert & Jody Frye.

Their recent communication is a real encouragement as well as proof that the LORD is alive and well!

Read for yourself:

Dear Walkers,
First of all, thank you for all your prayers. It is evident that God is continuing to give us strength, resolve and peace about our mission here.

Tonight, we met with the priest and his wife in their home here in our village. We were a little surprised that they welcomed us in so nicely. Basically, the young priest, (25 years old) denied that he said anything agianst us, or that he told the children that they were not allowed to come to our house. He did say that they were not behaving in church so he threatened them to scare them, but he didn't say how. When we asked if he said he would have their grades changed at school if they continued to see us, he avoided the question, and never really admitted one way or the other. We know how gossip is and we aren't believing what everybody says, but are also realizing that he isn't telling us everything either. All the same, we had a very peaceful discussion. He wanted us to know that his bishop is concerned and really doesn't want him having much to do with us. He said that if we hand out material the people in the village will be upset, and that we shouldn't put on our programs, that the "children of Ighisu Vechi invite you", because it will make people mad. At the end, he said he really doesn't care what we do, as long as we don't encourage the children to do bad things (which he said he was sure we were not), and to not be respectful of others. Robert told him that our purpose is to show the children a Christ-centered life, not just tell them. The priest re iterated that religion really should be left for the church to take care of, ,and to only those people who choose to come to the church. We didn't argue about anything, but all the same, we know that this will not be the end.
As we read in the Bible, we are rejoicing at this opportunity for our faith to shine. We will continue to pray for the strength to live a life worthy of the calling that God has given us, so to silence all manner of ill that men may say about us. We are exremely grateful for the relationships that God has allowed with our neighbors, even though they claim they are devout orthodox, they didn't believe all the things that have been said about us, and for this we are thankful. Even so, we will not be surprised at the next battle, for God tells us that we must be ready for the storms to come in this manner as said in I Peter 3:14-15
"But even if you should suffer (which we don't feel we have yet) for the sake of righteousness, you are blessed. And do not fear their intimidation, and do not be troubled, but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence;"
Earlier today, Robert and William took the teenage boys on a hike through the hills to a nearby village in preparation for spring camp. They ended up at our friend's office, which happens to be a policeman. He is orthodox also. We have talked about him previously in some other newsletters. The Lord has allowed us to spend some time with him in the past, and we are on good terms with him. Robert took the boys inside to get warmed up. He asked Robert how things were going in Ighisu, and Robert explained some of the problems we have been having with the people and the priest. Nicu, the policeman, sat the boys down, and explained that they are free to choose whatever they want to believe. He reassured them it is not against the law to believe something other than orthodoxy. Robert was very surprised. He didn't really expect this response. He encouraged the boys to listen to Robert and follow his example, because he said that Robert does what is right. We praise the Lord for the support He provides for us, even through those that are not believers. The boys came back revived and feeling free from fear.
Please continue to pray as we continue to work with the kids, and try to live a life that shows the truth and light. May God bless each of you.

Continuing On,
Jody for us all