Sunday in Croatia

We attended a Baptist church this morning. There were probably about 75-100 people there. The pastor gave his sermon in the Croatian language, but with earphones in our ears we were able to hear the simultaneous English translation. We sang praise songs, many of which we were familiar with. Usually the first verse was in Croatian, the second verse in English. It will be a great way to learn how to prounounce Croatian words. Two talented ladies led us in the singing, accompanied by a piano, drums and a guitar.

Even though I could hear the English translation of the sermon, it was hard to concentrate on it. I would look up and see and hear with my right ear the pastor speaking Croatian, and at the same time in my left ear hear the English. I suppose this will take some time to get accustomed to. Somehow I will have to watch the pastor and his mannerisms, however focus on the words he's saying in English and not in Croatian. He spoke on the theme of giving God the glory for our talents and abilities, rather than glorifying ourselves.

They have the custom here, as they did in Sweden, to fellowship together and have coffee and cakes after the church service. After the service we went out to eat at an Italian restaurant. I had a chicken risotto dish that was very tasty. I also sampled some grilled squid for the first time! For me, that is definitely stepping out of my Midwest meat-and-potatoes comfort zone! It was good, though I'm not sure I'll be ordering it anytime soon.

It was good to be in the house of the Lord today. We met a missionary family who homeschools and several other American families who are here because of their jobs. It is incredible to meet Christians on the other side of the world who worship the same risen Savior, who sing the same songs, and who believe in the same Word of God. I'm sure the Lord has us here for a reason. I am excited for Him to reveal, day by day, how we can serve Him in this place!

"God be gracious to us and bless us,
And cause His face to shine upon us-
That Your way may be known on the earth,
Your salvation among all nations.
Let the peoples praise You, O God;
Let all the peoples praise You.
Let the nations be glad and sing for joy..."
Psalm 67:1-4

Marla