I now understand why Paul admonishes the church to “pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17).

Since arriving in Croatia, I have been around a much broader range of people, observing them, talking to those I can and getting a feel for their needs. Meanwhile, I have been continuing to read about prayer requests and other needs back in the States. The need for prayer is enormous.

I was fortunate to grow up in the church and to receive an Adventist education from kindergarten through college. Along the way, I made great friends. As I entered the working world, I also made friends with my coworkers, but I seemed to make a separation in my mind between work and life. Sure, a couple of friends were open to hearing about God, but even having those conversations was a bit difficult because I had a government job.

Nikki and I were both active in our church back home, and it was easy to compartmentalize work friends and church friends. But ever since we have been here in the mission field, I have realized how many of my friends back home are Christian. I cannot think of a single close friend who is not. And I believe that created a complacency in me. All my friends were saved, so I did not feel a sense of urgency in spreading the gospel.

Contrast that with over here, where it seems as if no one has a desire to know God, mainly because they really do not realize how much they need Him. I don’t say that as a judgment, but as a wake-up call for me. When I go to the café with the other students after our fitness class, most order beer and light up a cigarette. (Of course, this is not a litmus test for salvation, and some are open to having a conversation about God.)

One evening, while on the tram, I started doing a mini prayer walk, praying for the individuals I saw. I felt convicted that the Holy Spirit was saying, “Who is praying for these people? If you don’t do it, who will?” Paul was right, we really do need to pray without ceasing. Now I try to make a habit of praying for those on the tram with me and those around me as I walk around town.

Please join me in praying for and serving those in our communities, especially the people of Croatia.

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