Marius, Alina & family

Marius, Amalia & myself

I stepped off the airplane in Budapest, Hungary after about  18 hours of traveling, made my way through customs, and found my giant bags (so thankful for those giant carts!). I then pushed my way around a sea of Asian tourists and toward the door that would lead me to those awaiting my arrival. I scanned the room for my red-headed friend and found her with little trouble; I breathed a sigh of relief and returned Kelly’s smile as I made my way past the gated area they heard arriving passengers through.  After a welcome and hug, we passed off my luggage the man who had accompanied Kelly to the airport. We then went to freshen up and find some water. Arriving at the car we found my luggage being loaded into the car by the man. Kelly introduced me to Marius, the first Romanian I ever met outside the U.S.; I said, “Hello” and he laughed at me. I’m quite sure I blushed, ashamed that I was still too scared to use the little Romanian I did know. Piling in the car we began our 5+ hour trek to the town I would call home for the summer. Kelly had warned me that Marius was a bit of a crazy driver, but I was too tired to care. I still fell asleep.

I had no idea that day who Marius really is. He spoke with Kelly in Romanian on the drive, shook me awake at the border to get out my passport, and got me safely back to Kelly’s apartment. Yet, throughout my time in Romania I found out that Marius has a very important role in God’s ministry to the Roma people. I got to know his family and quickly fell in love with the smiles and antics of his beautiful little girls, as well as the smile and warm hospitality of his wife.

Marius is often quiet, yet he has what I call an ornery streak. He teases the people he cares about. He takes his responsibilities seriously, but he also laughs loudly and smiles often. I was quick to gain a nickname from Marius, although I have no clue how or why he began calling me Marishka. Marius works hard both at home and in ministry. He adores his little girls & treasures his wife. I know he is a great role model for the Roma believers as they seek to become men of God.

Alina with Amalia

Alina, Marius’ wife, is one of the hardest working mothers I’ve ever met. She loves the Lord and serves Him. She is intentional about her family being her first ministry. She is warm and hospitable. Her smile and laugh are contagious. She always made me feel welcome and loved. The love she has for her daughters overflows moment by moment. Her daughters are so blessed to call her mommy! They will be blessed to become women of God just like her!

Amalia is the spunkiest little girl you’re likely to meet. She is active and energetic, constantly ready to run and play. Activities that frequent her days are: bike riding, changing outfits, giggling and running. We played lots of games this summer and had fun running around the park. She even came over one day to the apartment and we watched Tangled (in Romanian)! I pray that Amalia will grow in the knowledge that she is loved, not only by her family and friends, but by our mighty Savior and King more than she can imagine!

Esthera

Esthera is a sweet and beautiful baby (although I’m not sure how much longer I’m allowed to call her a baby)! We became fast friends shortly after my arrival. Playing peek-a-boo (Romanian style) and smiling shyly at newcomers were some of her favorite activities. From the pictures on Facebook, she is growing quickly and still looks as sweet as ever! My prayer for Esthera is that she will grow into the knowledge that she is loved by family, friends and has a Heavenly Father who loves her more than she will ever know!

Thank you for praying for this wonderful family. I can't wait to get back to Romania and spend some time with them. I miss them so much!