There were so many momentous headlines this past Friday, June 24, 2022. For example, “Supreme Court Overturns Roe v. Wade” and “Senate Passes Bipartisan Gun Safety Legislation.” Those of you support Ukraine may have missed another very significant headline:

“European Union Makes Ukraine A Candidate for Membership”
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/european-union-to-grant-ukraine-candidate-status-war-russia

Without taking away from the other headlines, I want you notice this important turning point in Ukraine’s struggle to exist as an independent nation. Although the Russian invasion of Ukraine is not over, this event paves the way for Ukraine to partner with twenty-seven other Europe countries and to exist as a free, democratic nation. The main benefits of EU membership are economic, but it also protects member nations from armed aggression. Ukraine has already met 70% of membership requirements.

I am not a political scientist and cannot interpret all the implications of this development, but as a missiologist I am praising the Lord because this event paves the way for the Gospel. With increased national stability our Ukrainian ministry partners will be able to continue expanding the evangelism, church planting, and missions ministries they began after gaining their independence 30 years ago.

As encouraged as I am by the possibility of EU membership for Ukraine, my hope is in the Lord, not human governments. Please continue asking the Lord to…

…bring peace to Ukraine. Russia fired 50 missiles at Ukrainian cities this morning, seven hitting Kyiv and others hitting what were considered “safe” cities. There have been massive bombings in Luhansk in eastern Ukraine as Russia seeks to consolidate its hold on eastern and southern Ukraine

…give Cheri and I wisdom regarding a planned ministry trip to Ukraine.

Thank you for caring,