By Georgia FreeTuesday 1 Mar 2022Hope BreakfastTrendingReading Time: 2 minutes
As the world watches Russia invade Ukraine, and millions of lives are plunged into uncertainty, it’s hard to imagine how locals are feeling but Lindsay Blessing, a missionary who has lived in Ukraine for more than 20 years, shared her insights on Hope Breakfast this morning.
“I’m exhausted, heartbroken… but feeling very hopeful. And feeling a lot of strength from the Lord each day that He’s here and He’s working,” Lindsay said.
Listen: Missionary in Ukraine, Lindsay Blessing shares what she has witnessed since Russia invaded the country and her hopes for the future
Lindsay and her family live in Lviv, in western Ukraine, and although the region has not yet experienced any attacks they are already feeling the effects of the invasion.
“When you go out, you have to drive through different checkpoints and block posts on the road,” she said.
“Most people have not been able to get to work. Their jobs and companies have shut down for now.”
Source: Supplied / Lindsay Blessing with her parents
Under martial law, Ukrainian men aged 18-60 are currently required to stay in the country, which has seen many families separated. However, despite this, Lindsay said that the community is remaining strong for each other.
“There’s a strong sense of unity,” she said.
“There’s a strong sense of unity,” – Lindsay Blessing, missionary in Ukraine
“Everyone’s just looking for where they can be of help.”
Ukrainians in general are also optimistic about their future, despite the current state of the country.
“I saw an article that said 70 per cent of Ukrainians believe they will win the war,” Lindsay said.
“There’s a lot of hope. And I think that builds each day.”
“I saw an article that said 70 per cent of Ukrainians believe they will win the war… There’s a lot of hope,” – Lindsay Blessing, missionary in Ukraine
Ukraine has a large contingent of Christians, which has been showcased across the world – with footage of Ukrainian Christians taking to the streets to pray. Lindsay’s church currently has a small group of people meeting each day to pray for the country.
“There’s an active church in Ukraine and Christians are really reaching out to strengthen those around them,” Lindsay said.
“Just seeing how God has been moving to allow Ukraine to experience so many victories, we recognise that is the mercy and power of God.
“We pray for that to continue.”
