До свидания Украина (Goodbye Ukraine)

Vera, Emily, and Byron

I can't believe that we're leaving Ukraine already. So much time, planning, and prayer has gone into our trip. It's just weird to think about us going back to the States now. But man, God has been just so faithful to Emily and I over the last month here.

It's interesting. I was thinking about this today. The first time I came to Ukraine was back in 2005. At that time I had no thought or intention of coming to this country multiple times. But when I first stepped into this country God just opened my heart to it and I fell in love with the country and people (Joshua 1:3!).

Now, 7 years later, I'm saying goodbye to Ukraine again. This was my 5th trip out here. But every time I have left the country, I have always felt God tugging at my heart to come back. It's crazy to think about the next time I make that transatlantic flight here, it won't be just a short term trip, but to actually move. I'll be able to call Ukraine my home. God is so good guys.

Emily and I had a great time here in Kiev the last week. Spending time with Kevin and Debbie has been such a blessing. What a great example of a missionary couple serving the Lord over here for years!

Byron, Vadym, Emily, and Dima

We had a blast seeing old Ukrainian friends. We also got to spend some quality time with our good friends Dima and Vadym. I met them both 7 years ago at an English camp here in Kiev and it's just awesome that we can still hang out with them. It seems like our friendship just picks up where it left off last. Our friendship with them is just so real. I'm really blessed to have them in my life. Can't wait to see them again when we move out here.

We also were blessed to see another old friend, Vera. We go way back with her as well. It was so fun
catching up with her. We also spent an afternoon with some not-so-old friends that we met last summer, Anton and Katya. As well as Igor,

(from left to right) Igor, Valery, Ann,
Byron, Emily, Vadym, and Dima

Ann, and Valery. Just an awesome time.

So we're leaving for the airport tomorrow afternoon. But the Lord has really confirmed His will for us and we're hoping to move as soon as possible. Shooting for September or October. Please be in prayer for this as we prepare.

We will announce to which city we will be moving to once we are settled back in the States.

I'm so excited that the Lord has called us to Ukraine. I really do love it here. God gave me this verse tonight that confirmed again in my heart as to why Emily and I are coming out here. This is the Goal:

"And so I have made it my aim to preach the gospel, not where Christ was named... But as it is written: 'To whom He was not announced, they shall see; and those who have not heard shall understand.'" Romans 15:20-21

It is Emily and my desire to bring the gospel to people in Ukraine who haven't heard. At the end of Romans Paul's vision and desire is the same as mine as we prepare to come back to Ukraine.

"But I know that when I come to you, I shall come in the fullness of the blessing of the gospel of Christ."

God bless guys, thanks again for your prayers and support.

Byron