This lovely hibiscus was one of only a few left on the grounds of the beautiful resort we stayed at a few weeks ago in Mazatlan. Since I like to start my blog with a picture, but want to write about a book I've just read which is impacting my thoughts, I chose the hibiscus unrelated to the story - and yet seemed right.
The Splendor of His Musicby Diane McMurrin (published in 1998 by Winepress Publishing) has captured my imagination and enthusiasm for several reasons. The author tells the story of her husband Roger and herself, both professional musicians, leaving secure positions in a prestigious church in Florida to begin a ministry to the Ukrainian people of Kiev in 1993. Diane shares beautifully through many heart-warming stories of God's providential leading and provision over and over again. Ultimately they devoted themselves completely, their time, talents, resources, heart and soul to the people of Kiev.
From a tiny beginning this dedicated couple worked passionately and over the years have established a remarkable ministry that encompasses the whole person - body, mind and soul. Their vehicle was music, and the gifted Ukrainians so hungry to be nourished with food for the whole person, grabbed the opportunity and the result is amazing.
"The purpose of Music Mission Kiev is to bring the sacred masterpieces of classical music to the country of Ukraine proclaiming the Gospel to and through Ukrainian musicians to the world--and ministering to the emerging Christian community in Ukraine through evangelism, discipleship, and humanitarian outreach to widows and orphans."
Many heart-warming stories are shared encompassing the vicissitudes of life. But the main thrust is always to bring hope to these beleagured people who were blinded by communism for so many years. I take my hat off to the McMurrins who have done so incredibly much to show so many a better way of life, all done with a spirit of humility and the love of Jesus.
Because my parents and their ancestors lived in Ukraine until 1923, because we love good choral music and learned to sing some of it and because we know who the Janzens are who are now heading up this ministry in Kiev on an interim basis, I was eager to read this book.
Check out their site and you can find how a professor at Trinity Western University, not far from where we live, and his family are now in Kiev spelling off the McMurrin's until the end of June. (Listen to the gorgeous music.)
http://www.musicmissionkiev.org/
