I just returned from Romania where I had the opportunity to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Emanuel Baptist Church. It is one of the largest churches in Eastern Europe and the largest Baptist church in all of Europe. I had the privilege of speaking to the over 3,000 people gathered for the service.
This was my 38th visit to Romania. I started visiting in the days of communism. At that time Emanuel Church was under constant persecution and meeting in a small building. At one point, the government tried to bulldoze the church down. But the members gathered inside, locked themselves in, and waited them out. God prevailed and the church was left standing. 
It was incredible to see how the church has grown. In my previous visits I took as many Americans as I could to visit Romania. When we got there, I twisted their arms to raise funds for a new church building. Over a period of several years we were able to raise over 1 million dollars.
I was also invited to dedicate a new church in Giris. My daughter Noel and my 10-year-old grandson Riley also spoke. World Help provided the roof for the church and 7 people came to faith that night.
To see the result of seeds planted years ago was very fulfilling. It’s obvious that God is building his kingdom in Romania.
I hope all of you have a Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Years.