Russian Reality

I shared my experience about "hearing Russia" with just a few people.  It was difficult to describe what I had experienced so, for the most part, I kept the information to myself.
However, a good friend of mine (who both dreams and prays BIG) was on the lookout for opportunities.  She was working at the Minneapolis Airport at the time and came back from work one Winter day to report that she had met someone who knew someone who was connected with a Slavic church in Shakopee.  "The members of the church are native Russians and they return to the country about every 6 months to serve in the orphanages." 
My dream-big friend had collected two contact names and phone numbers of men who were connected to the Shakopee church. 
As fearful as I was of pursing a mission trip with complete strangers to such a far-away place, I was confident that what was stirring inside of me was something of substance.  
I made the phone call, contacting "Tim" and tried to explain who I was and why I was calling...so weird!  Tim talked openly with me (in his Russian accent) about the trips, highlighting that "we've only had one 'real American' travel with us and the most difficult challenge you will face is the language...our people speak primarily to one another in Russian."  He described a trip that was coming up during the summer months and told me I would be welcome to apply.  I thanked Tim and ended the call...the fear had not subsided.  

In the beginning there is always a word.  For me, the word was "Russia". 
 
Three years ago I was attending service at Hope Community Church in Cottage Grove the same way I had nearly every Sunday since the age of 4.  A guest speaker was visiting from the mission field, a semi-regular event at Hope.  I do not remember if it was a man or a woman.  I do not remember which country they were serving in.  All that I remember is that they spoke the word "Russia" and I heard. 

It is difficult to describe what and how I heard.  There was no accompanying vision, no specific instruction, no sesne of direction.  I simply heard the word "Russia" and my heart was stirred up.  

Feeling both confused and amused I offered up a quick prayer of willingness to the Lord and filed away the word in my heart and mind for safe keeping...for another time.