In a country known as the breadbasket of Europe… that’s how they chose to welcome us.
Not because they have plenty, but because it’s how you honor someone. How you say, “You matter to us.”
We met the Semendyay family at the gate of their new home — standing there with anticipation, holding a loaf of bread. Hugs were shared. Smiles all around. And then we made a trade.
They gave us the bread.
We gave them a key, and a Bible.
Because the key opens the door to a home… and the Bible opens the door to the blessing of God over it.
And then we walked in together.
You could feel it the moment we crossed the threshold. They moved from room to room — opening doors, looking into corners, just taking it all in. A simple home, not big by any standard. But full of potential. A place for family meals, laughter, and a future that hasn’t been possible for a long time.
For the first time in four years, this family is living under one roof again.
I thought that was the moment that would get me.
It wasn’t.
Vladimir unzipped his jacket.
He was wearing a Missouri Tigers shirt.
He looked up a team near my home… because he didn’t want me to feel out of place.
Think about that. After four years without a home, they’re thinking about me.
And when we asked what their first plans were, they didn’t say rest or relief. They said they want to plant a garden — so they can share with their community.
Four years in a cold, damp shelter. Day to day. That’s not living.
But now… life begins again.
It was an honor to be their first guest. To share a meal in their home. To pray over them, and to believe for peace in Ukraine and blessing over everything they put their hands to.
This is where generosity begins — not when we have more. It starts when we decide that what we have is enough to bless someone else.
So maybe the question is… what do you have in your hands that could bless someone else?
Stay with us. There’s more to come.
Whether you give, go, or pray — there’s always a way to bring hope for better days.