CEE Story From The Mission Field
If You Were on Trial for Being a Christian …
October 2, 2006
You’ve heard the old question, “If you were on trial for being a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you?” Recently this thought provoker was used as the catalyst for a game with young people at an orphanage in Romania. Through careful interrogation of their “witness” the youth determined that 42-year old Damian had an outward façade of Christianity, but didn’t have a changed heart. Their verdict had eternal consequences.
Damian came to the orphanage that day with IMB missionary, Troy Geddes. He had been taking part in English classes that were being held by a volunteer team from Missouri that had come to Galati, Romania. Through the classes, 230 people were able to learn about salvation through Christ alone. Damian was one of these.
Coming into the classes, his life was empty and he was nearly suicidal. He was confused spiritually with a mother who held tightly to her Orthodox faith and a father who had come to know the Lord after Damian was an adult. He was interested in spiritual things, but was convinced he was going to Hell when he died. He was eager to know something that would give life meaning. Troy spent hours going through Scriptures with Damian, and developed a friendship with him that resulted in his visit to the orphanage.
The preceding week at the orphanage, Troy had introduced a game based on their studies of Romans 3. “We put ADAM on trial representing all man kind,” said Troy. I was the prosecuting attorney. The kids loved it.”
Following suit, Troy decided to hold another trial at the orphanage. This week he told them they had to find out the condition of this man, Damian. “I asked Damian if he would sit in the chair and let the kids interrogate him spiritually,” said Troy. “The rules required that he tell the truth—that he goes to church, believes in God, is Orthodox, prays, and reads his Bible. He was to make the kids figure out if he was a born-again believer.” Damian played his part well doing an awesome job presenting his outward façade of faith. But finally the kids saw through the façade and determined he was a sinner on his way to hell.
“Then I had the kids pray for him,” said Troy. Several of the boys prayed heart- wrenching prayers that were so genuine that Damian was brought to tears. He didn't stop talking about his experience for several days. He told his family all about it and invited Troy to come to his home and teach him more. After several meetings, Damian gave his life to Christ!
Damian’s experience has not only given his life meaning it has also filled him with a desire to share what he has found with others. “I pray and talk to Him daily.” He says. “Every day is a new experience in my life having Christ in my mind and soul. I wish I had the opportunity to do more for the people who haven't found Christ yet.”
There are so many more in Romania and in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) whose spiritual security would crumble under a biblical examination. Some put their faith in the state church, some in Mary, some in the world’s riches, some in themselves, and some in nothing at all. Our prayer is for more Damians to find the lover of their souls and put their faith in Him.
Do you want to be a part of reaching the Damians of CEE? It was through a volunteer team’s English club that Damian’s search for meaning found direction. You can volunteer in CEE and help give meaning to the lives of many who are lost without Christ. Find out how to get involved by clicking here.