Missing Dad - The war took fathers to the front lines
In many Ukrainian homes, fathers are now absent. Family members worry for their safety and have taken on the challenges of a fatherless daily life. Young Artyom, like too many other children, has to bear responsibilities well beyond his age.
- “What’s your name?” our team member Tania asked a boy of about eight years old who was leading a horse.
- “Artyom,” the boy replied, clutching the horse’s lead rope in his dirty hand.
- “Where is your father?”
- “At war,” Artyom quietly responded.
- “Does he call you?”
- “He doesn’t have time. He’s busy fighting,” the boy lamented.
Artyom is currently the man of the house and his mother’s main helper. One of his jobs is to care for their aging horse, which is vital to working their fields.
Tania handed Artyom a colorful children’s Bible.
- “Would you like this book? It’s about Jesus, who died but rose from the dead because He loves you. He wants to help you, and this book will help you get to know Him.”
Artyom stood still. The serious expression on his face softened slightly, and he picked up the Bible.
Knowing Jesus brings comfort and encouragement.
We pray that Artyom and others will find faith and security in our loving Heavenly Father and that their fathers will return home soon!
Our team continues to visit mothers, children, and the elderly in villages in the Odessa region. We bring a Bible and boxes of food to each home. With winter just around the corner, we will also deliver firewood like we did last year.
You can help a family in Ukraine by designating your gift to “Help for Ukraine”
