Europe was truly the experience of a lifetime, both mentally and spiritually. As I was telling a few of my friends, Europe has a unique history that the United States does not have. Because it was established long before the United States was founded, they have a far greater amount of forefathers, past heroes, legendary battles, and so on. When the pilgrims landed on Plymouth Rock, they were leaving England, therefore leaving behind a continent absolutely rich with history. Although America does have historical buildings and landmarks, they cannot be compared with the ancient structures of Germany and Austria.
The oldest church building in America was built around 1520 by the Spanish settlers. However, the oldest church building in Europe was constructed in Rome circa 221 A.D.! Europe has an extensive history unlike any other culture in the world. As a result, our group was able to tour cathedrals and old buildings that had been built thousands of years before America was established. That was incredible!
Our performances were very enjoyable! At our second performance, the director of the Vienna Boys Choir was in the audience, which would be the equivalent of a Julliard professor attending a concert. It was such an honor when we discovered he listened to mere students from California!! Amazing! When I upload pictures, I will include more details about our performances. :)
Out of all my wonderful experiences, the most profound moment of the whole trip was the opportunity to witness to my dear Mormon friends. Going into the trip, I knew that I would be spending large amounts of time with these ladies, and prayed for the courage and strength to share my faith with them. I felt so inadequate, but I knew that the Lord had purposely placed me with them. My "key" verse for the trip came from 2 Corinthians:
"And He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me."
That was truly the cry of my heart! And believe me, I have never felt such blessed assurance than when I am fully trusting in Christ.
Then, my opportunity came two nights before we left. By the grace of God, my four friends and I were able to talk seriously about the concepts of Christianity and Mormonism. For probably an hour, they stayed in my room, asking questions and debating numerous topics with me.
"And He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me."
That was truly the cry of my heart! And believe me, I have never felt such blessed assurance than when I am fully trusting in Christ.
Then, my opportunity came two nights before we left. By the grace of God, my four friends and I were able to talk seriously about the concepts of Christianity and Mormonism. For probably an hour, they stayed in my room, asking questions and debating numerous topics with me.
As a people-pleaser, I detest stepping on other people's toes. At all costs, I avoid conflict and pursue peace. However, I am learning that when it comes to the things of the Lord, we cannot be afraid to stand alone. That is what I did that night - stood alone for the sake of the gospel. Although I was alone, I had never felt such confidence because I knew Jesus was right there beside me. All I had to do was speak truth, and He fought the battle for me. He is worthy to be praised!!
I challenge you to ask yourself, "When push comes to shove, do I choose Christ or others? Am I a people-pleaser or a Christ-plesaser?" Ultimately, we will all fail in this area sometime or another. Pray and ask the Lord for strength, for He promises that He will never leave us or forsake us. Choose Christ, and have the courage to stand alone.
"Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.” - Deuteronomy 31:6
"No one will be able to stand against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you." - Joshua 1:5
I challenge you to ask yourself, "When push comes to shove, do I choose Christ or others? Am I a people-pleaser or a Christ-plesaser?" Ultimately, we will all fail in this area sometime or another. Pray and ask the Lord for strength, for He promises that He will never leave us or forsake us. Choose Christ, and have the courage to stand alone.
"Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.” - Deuteronomy 31:6
"No one will be able to stand against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you." - Joshua 1:5
Olivia,
ReplyDeleteI am so happy for your wonderful opportunity to share the gospel with your friends! Even though they may have not made that life changing decision to be a follower of Jesus Christ, that little seed that you planted may yet be watered later in their lives. You are truly a wonderful friend and a great example. :) What joy it is to know that what you did was right and that the Lord saw it. :)
Your friend,
Sarah