03/27/02 Amsterdam, Netherlands
We arrived via Eurolines Bus this morning to the city of Amsterdam,
Netherlands. We arrived very early, and have had a chance to spend a
portion of our day walking the streets. It started out very calm, the
places so notorious for their scandal not yet open. As the day went on,
we have seen the spirit of this place manifested more and more. I
rejoice that our Father has been faithful to keep us from temptation here.
Actually, when we started seeing some of the many prostitutes come out
this afternoon it left me with great sadness. To look upon the faces
of these women is to look at what seems to be ghosts. It felt very
hollow and sad to me, and empty of any temptation. Again I praise HIM for
this, as I know that in my flesh dwells no good thing, for to will
(desire) is present with me but how to perform that which is good I find
not (Romans 7:18).
I asked Steven and Paul if there was anything they wanted to say on
this page, and they requested prayer. We are all pretty wearied from the
plane and bus rides. Actually I don't know that Steve has slept in a
horizontal position (for any great length of time) in at least a few
days. We would also like to ask for prayer concerning our witness. We
checked into the "The Shelter"
Christian Youth Hostel today, where Steven had been employed about 5 years
ago. They have nightly Bible studies, and it is possible that we will be
asked to lead them while we are here.
We are looking into ways to get to the next planned leg of our
journey- Romania, where we are to meet up with Peter and John to visit
the poor in the villages there. Thanks again may be given on my behalf
for all of the prayers and encouraging words. I am glad as well that
opportunity has been consistently provided to update this page.
Until the next time, if there be one.
-Br James