And she called her friends and neighbors and said, “Rejoice with me for I have found the coin which was lost!” Luke 15:9
Alexey and Dasha Ryazanov, both from the Ukraine, have lived with Nikki and me for many months. A world class ballroom dancer, Alexey teaches at a studio in Laguna Hills and gives Nikki dance lessons. Becoming Christians while in the Ukraine and part of a Hillsong church there, they have attended services at Little Church. Last summer Alexey gave dance lessons in Fellowship Hall and all had a great time. To say they are a handsome couple would be an understatement. Alexey is tall, strong and good looking and Dasha is a beautiful, striking brunette who could, and probably should, be a model.
Over a year ago Alexey lost his wedding ring. Dasha thought she might have been at fault and grieved over the loss. They did pray but with no results. Months passed and Dasha decided she would buy a new ring for their anniversary this coming March.
Recently Nikki came home from Trader Joe’s and I helped unload groceries.. Upon finishing, I started to close the trunk door when I looked in the back to see if anything had spilled out. Suddenly it caught my eye – a small ring, tucked in the rear. At first I thought it was a toy but as I picked it up I realized it wasn’t. And when I showed Dasha and Alexey the ring they were simply overwhelmed.
What have you lost? What’s disappeared? Maybe a ring. Or a dream. A hope. Something you’ve loved that was once very dear to you. God has not forgotten. Out of nowhere it can suddenly appear. Don’t give up on what you’ve lost. No matter how long it’s been. As far-fetched as this might seem to some of you, be encouraged, God can do anything. He specializes in what is lost, like your life and mine at one time.
May God restore to you in this new year hope that has been long deferred. But even more, helping you find what’s been lost.
Alexey and Dasha at a place they love – the beach
Prayer Focus This Week
· All ministries starting up again after holidays, that each one would be fruitful
· Healing for many who have been struggling with colds and flu
· Lynda Davis whose sister passed last week
· Bill Devin’s weekly prison ministry
· That we would all think positively; no stinking thinking
· Upper Room morning prayer; passion, hearing clearly from God
· Adult children who are struggling in life
· Upcoming Youth Haiti Missions trip; all funds coming in
Never Seen Anything Quite Like This: Amazing Van Gogh on Water
The view of Laguna from our mountain knoll as we started out the new year praying for our city and nation
Closing Advice: Don’t watch the news; it’s going to put you in a really bad mood.
Jay