I’m a retired dentist, and about 30 years ago I was involved in a project in Romania

My Bible: reasons to believe in the power of the Bible

‘I’m a retired dentist, and about 30 years ago I was involved in a project in Romania, to provide dental care for Romanian orphans and support the local health services. It was a special time. There was so much potential to make a difference, because things were so cheap then. You could do a lot with £100 in those days. 

‘One of the verses that kept coming up at that time was Isaiah 61.7–9 which says, “Instead of your shame you will receive a double portion and instead of disgrace you will rejoice in your inheritance … and everlasting joy will be yours.” 

‘Romania was a sad, devastated country at that time. It was only a few years out of the Ceausescu era. But what was encouraging was seeing that God’s hand was on this country. These verses seemed to me like the faithful promises of God to the Romanian people. 

‘It seemed like everyone was quoting these verses then, and it gave us a sense of unity and it was a promise that we were in the right place doing the right thing. 

‘Recently, I heard on the radio that Romanian health workers had been given three pay rises over a period of time and that mirrors this verse in Isaiah. They got a triple portion. It’s great that Romania has been blessed with resources to do this. 

‘It made me wonder if I should go back, but I also see it as a prayer for our country too.’

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