The Lord has been so good to me! As I reflected on ONE MONTH IN HUNGARY I couldn’t help but see how the Holy Spirit is working here, and the evidence of His fruit within me.
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control…” Galatians 5:22a
I was warmly welcomed by Betsy Melchers (pictured on the left with me), and the rest of the Budapest City Team. There is much more happening here than can be put into words. My personal love for Budapest has grown tremendously. The Lord has opened my eyes to see it as my home away from home. I believe this is also because of the love that He has put in my heart for the people here. On my previous trips to Hungary, there was a whirlwind of activities and long 14 hour days. Not much time for many deeper friendships. But now I have the opportunity to invest in these friendships face to face instead of through a computer screen. Encouraging their relationships with Christ is an honor and a privilege that I am truly grateful for.
The Lord has put pure joy in my heart. Even after a long day I am thrilled to see what He has planned for me next because it is always an adventure. I work with several adult English Clubs and Bible Studies during the week. It’s a great privilege and joy! They are also so fun to be around! On Mondays, there is an Adult English Discussion Group. On Tuesday, I go Körösi Secondary School where we have an English Club for the parents. Wednesday is our bible study. On Friday mornings there is another discussion based English Club. Please pray for intentional conversation during our discussions. Specifically, that the Lord would give opportunity to lovingly bring the Gospel to the forefront of the conversation as much as possible.
The Creator of the Universe has given me supernatural peace. I am however having a more difficult time with my newfound independence than I thought I would. In the beginning I was packing my days and trying to take on as many opportunities as humanly possible. But that’s just it… I am only human. Please pray that I will be delivered from this worldly attitude that I can accomplish everything. Instead, may I look to the Lord each morning to seek His plan for my day.
Thanks for praying!
Elise
The Orchard - Balkans 
Dearest Granddaughter, What joy to hear what God is doing in your heart and your life. We have seen the joy on your face in the photos that have been posted . . . Thank You Lord for the work you are doing in Elise’s heart and life. Thank You Lord for surrounding her with your people and Your Peace that passes all understanding. Miss you my Elise! Grandpa too of course. HUGS, HUGS, HUGS, to you and to those who you meet. “This is the day that the Lord has made, I will rejoice and be glad in it!” Let’s sing it together! Love, Grandma and Grandpa
What a blessing God is doing in Hungary. This was so good to hear and I pray you will learn to lean into HIM for strength and just breathe. I work in a fast-paced environment (I wish it were for the Lord in a ministry!) and I know how it can be when you cannot cram it all the day and in your head Let HIM give you rest and savor every moment for the wonderful work you and the others are doing in Hungary. God bless you Elise…
Elise,
We will continue to pray for you and all those you meet in Hungary. We will pray that His Word is the first thing you seek, that you will not suffer from homesickness (sounds like the Lord is already helping there!), and that Christ’s love will flow through you to the Hungarians you meet each day.
It is so good to hear from you! Your heart for God and passion for ministry is so encouraging. It really refreshed my heart (and challenged me) to get an insight into the inner workings of the Spirit of God in your heart, setting you free from self to serve others. Thank you for being transparent! May God bless you, dear Elise!
So happy to hear things are going well! Your Sunday School girls miss you…Michaela asks daily if the 77 days is almost up. We will continue to pray for you!