No Greater Joy

My first trip to Czech in 2006, I met Mishka.  She is a Czech girl who has grown up in Germany.  She speaks more languages than I can pronounce and she's only 17.  At the time, she was 13 years old.  We were in the same room at camp and I can't stop thanking God that He allowed us to be together because in that room together, both my life and hers were changed.

The last night of camp is called "Gospel Night."  It's the wrap-up to whatever the theme of the week has been and in it, the students hear a very clear presentation of the Good News.  Afterward, the campers are encouraged to talk with someone or to think through the things they have heard and seen.  Mishka and I, kind of by accident, ran into each other in the hall and went to go talk.  I don't remember much of what we talked about, but I know that it was a conversation that changed everything.  That night, Mishka entered the family of God.

Since that day, I have watched Mish grow and be challenged, struggle and be encouraged, pray and seek God diligently.  I've never met someone who so deeply wants to know God and walk closely with Him.  She's never satisfied with where she's at in her walk with Him; she always wants more of Him.

I remember when she told me of her dream to be involved with worship.  She felt that God had placed this desire in her heart to be used by Him through music.  But, she didn't feel that she had the ability to do so.  But, her guitar skills continually improved and her heart for Him deepened.  And, here is a video of Mishka recently.  I was overwhelmed with joy and thankfulness as I watched this video and saw who God has grown Mishka into. 
 





 God has gifted Mishka in so many ways, her musical talent is just one of His evidences of his grace in her life.  Right now, she is in Czech serving the people there in a myriad of ways.  I am so proud of the young woman she has become.  I so resonate with John's words in 3 John 4 " I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth."  God has allowed me to see Mishka grow up spiritually from day one until now and I am so thankful for that.  She continues to walk in the truth and to bring a smile to His face and to mine.  I love you, Mish!