Hungary

Yo Nappot from Budapest Hungary!

Our team has been here for just over a week now and are really enjoying our time here in Hungary. Like most European countries Hungary has an extensive history that shows itself through the immaculate architecture in buildings and the ripple effect that communism has left making people very orderly and reserved. It is considered rude to talk loud in public places especially on bus' or trains and very uncommon to see people smile. Because of their past failures in war and revolution it has produced in them a very fatalistic mentality that believes life is hard and that joy is an illusion. Most people here typically hate 'Hollywood happy ending movies' and would rather watch movies and read books where people die in the end.

This is their reality.

I had somewhat of a heated discussion with a Hungarian man during a time of evangelism who was intent on convincing me that God is a terrorist and takes pleasure in bringing judgement to us. He insisted that if I were truly a Christian that I shouldn't be playing music but should be providing for the poor . Generally I try to stray away from arguing with people who know they're right but I tried to explain that providing for the poor (without minimizing the importance of caring for the poor!) is only a temporary solution and that what people really need is the gospel message of hope and peace. Jesus didn't come to correct the peoples' physical problems but offered them something beyond their circumstances. After listening to this man rant and rage I was able to challenge him with one thing; I told him to genuinely ask God to show himself to him because I am convinced that when we open ourselves up to God he is more than willing to make himself known to us. I am praying for this man and for more of these type of experiences to share the TRUTH of who God is. Twice a week we've been setting up a sound system in the middle of the metro station and have been playing music, sharing testimonies and a short message. Tomorrow I will be sharing the story of the Prodigals son, portraying the beauty of salvation and forgiveness.

Please partner with me in prayer that God would be softening the hearts of the Hungarians.

Because His love is better then life

Jer