18.04.2005 An American View of Russia

For most of my life, I never had any interest in the country of Russia, its people, language or culture. Like every other American attending school in the 1960's, I was taught that Russia was our enemy, to be feared, condemned, and avoided. Imagine my surprise when, in 1993, I became immersed in a project to aid the Russian people in the Republic of Chuvashia. I was happy to help with this project, having been in contact with a Russian pastor for about 2 years previously, and being told of the difficult circumstances of their lives. I was moved by compassion. But to actually travel into Russia was beyond my level of comfort.
However, the entire project was led by God, and it was made clear to me that I was to go into the heart of Russia, despite my lack of desire to do so. How blessed I am now because of that simple act of obedience! There has grown a bond between myself and many Russian people. (I have now been to Russia 3 times) Both they and I have come to discover that we are all simply people, created in the image of God. While our governments may disagree and even be enemies at times, we are just brothers and sisters who live on opposite sides of the world. We have the same needs, the same hopes for our children, the same dreams of a happy and contented life. Americans have had it easier, however, as all the world knows. Because life is generally more affluent in our country, Americans have become soft and, yes, spoiled. They expect things to be done right, and immediately. They tolerate nothing that they perceive as unjust.
Many Americans have no patience or compassion for those less fortunate. I believe that God will judge us as a nation, and that, in the end, it may be a better thing to be Russian than it is to be American. And yet, Russia has suffered the effects of decades of Spiritual darkness. One thing that made America strong was its foundation in Biblical principles. Conversely, the thing that will be the ruin of our country is the disdain of the very principles our nation was founded upon. Russia had its foundation cruelly stripped from it for over 70 years, and I believe that if it is to gain strength once more, the people (especially those in authority) must turn back to the God who is the One Authority over all.
In my three trips to Russia, I have seen the spiritual hunger of the people, and pray that others will be sent who can teach them the only Way to salvation, which is through Jesus Christ, our Lord. I don't know if there will be another opportunity for me to travel to Russia, but if there is, I will welcome it. I have come to know and to love the Russian people, as well as their culture and language. Much of my heart remains in Russia, where I left it almost 10 years ago. And I thank God every day that He allowed me the privilege of ministering to His people in that great land.
Paulette St.Jean Calton.