Story 2. Otni, one of our participants from Romania, and I were out engaging people one afternoon and came across a young lady with an interesting tattoo. 2+2=5. She described the tattoo as a symbol to represent her desire to be a nonconformist. She expressed that she was young and excited to venture into the world and discover for herself what truth should would decide. If at any point, she decided that 2+2 did in fact =4, then she already had a plan to cross out the 5 and put in the 4. I shared with her that as a geometry teacher, I actually did a proof for the students demonstrating that 2+2=5. As I talked through the reasoning, they were always a bit shocked as how can that be true. Of course, the only way to prove it was to provide something illogical and make it sound right. I felt like this conversation described a reality of so many young people today, Set against accepting the proof that there is a God, in many conversations the person ends up admitting that he/she willingly accepts something illogical, an acceptable exception, to the rest of their logic so that they can avoid considering God. Please pray for mercy for all of us in our human nature that pridefully will do what we can to avoid turning to God.
What is next?
– Julia is here for the next two months continuing to grow in her own walk with Jesus as well as help out with the work. Besides hopefully meeting new people, Julia will help facilitate an after school club which I am hoping becomes a middle school youth group.
– Trauma Training Certification. The first week of September I will have the opportunity to participate in a 30 hour training which help equip me to facilitate trauma groups in my neighbourhood. An opportunity to meet a need and cultivate community for many that are hurting.
– Language Learning through Bible Study. I have struggled seeing a continuous group form. There are a few women free during the day that desire to work on language. Praying for a core group to come together this next month.
– PhD work. Last year was a bit slow due to over committing to ministry activities and honestly, struggling with my own insecurities to engage this type of project. I am diving into this term motivated, and eager to take full advantage of this opportunity I believe God has opened for me. Pray for me as I continue to learn how to keep masses of information organized. Pray for favor as I hope to interview 40 Iranians before Christmas.
Financial Update. Over the next six months, the goal is to raise $1000 in monthly giving and $7000 in one-time gifts. Please join me in praying for this need. If you know anyone who is looking for a missionary to support, please connect us. If you know of a church looking to get more involved in support refugee work, please let me know. If you would like to hear more, or for me to share during a home group time, just share some dates and times! I am excited that WE get to engage a work focused on reaching the nations!
Following and Fishing 
I would love to hear what you are thinking! Feel free to share!