“For you have so exalted your solemn decree that it surpasses your fame.”
In the wake of war that has devastated millions of lives in Ukraine and Eastern Europe, a ministry known for smuggling Bibles into the Soviet Union during the 1960s continues its mission to this day. The Eastern European Mission (EEM) is actively printing and distributing Bibles and Gospel-centered materials in local languages through an extensive network of churches and Christian organizations.
EEM has set an ambitious goal for 2024: distributing 970,000 Bibles and Bible-based resources across more than 30 countries and in over 20 languages. Even before Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, EEM had been providing Bibles to Ukraine. According to data from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, there are approximately 6.8 million Ukrainian refugees worldwide as of November 2024.
Dirk Smith, EEM’s Vice President, remarked, “This war is not from a good place, but God will use it for His purposes.” He explained that requests for Ukrainian Bibles have increased during the ongoing conflict as many Ukrainians seek solace in God amidst their trials.
Smith noted, “The rise in demand for Ukrainian Bibles is largely because believers are migrating and staying with or traveling alongside non-believers. The non-believers observe the believers enduring the same hardship with a unique peace—a peace that surpasses understanding—and they ask, ‘How is this possible?’ This opens the door for believers to share Jesus.”
Despite the conflict, EEM continues to print Bibles in Kyiv and Western Ukraine. Supply chains have been rerouted through Poland and Moldova due to the war, but EEM has yet to face significant obstacles beyond this adjustment. On the ground, the ministry partners with Ukrainian-run NGOs, churches, and organizations to distribute Bibles.
Requests for more Bibles surge after missile strikes, highlighting the profound need for God’s Word amid chaos. For Smith, this response is a powerful reminder of the Holy Spirit at work. “This isn’t about us; it’s about the power of God’s Word,” he said, referring to the Parable of the Sower in Matthew 13.
The parable describes a farmer sowing seeds, representing God’s Word. While some seeds flourish in good soil, others are lost to birds, thorns, or the sun. Smith emphasized, “We sow the seed, and then we stand back in awe of God’s subtle yet incredible power at work.” (Source: Christian Today, Edited)
I will praise you, LORD, with all my heart; before the “gods” I will sing your praise. I will bow down toward your holy temple and will praise your name for your unfailing love and your faithfulness, for you have so exalted your solemn decree that it surpasses your fame.(Psalms 138:1-2)
God, we praise You, Lord, for the amazing revival of thirst for Your word even in the terrible ground of war. We look forward in faith that the word of life which has been scattered through missionary groups that have distributed the Bible and gospel materials for nearly 60 years in obedience will bear beautiful fruits in Eastern Europe. Lord, may You work to spread the message of peace in Christ further to the souls of Ukraine and nations who are still wandering in hellish sufferings. Thus, thank You, God of mercy, that You will raise churches that exalt the word of God above all names.
Prayer 24·365
prayer@prayer24365.org
