The sanctuaries speak of God, but even more of people’s faith in God. Expressing what they have experienced. Experienced in meeting God. In extraordinary situations in life, or by getting to know God through the word of God. Meditating on a sermon or listening to spiritual music.
As people of faith, we believe that God is willing and able to speak to us. He has given us life. Many do not think about this. But that doesn’t mean God doesn’t think about us. Like the Father to the children. Even when the roads have led far apart, as in the story of the lost son in the Bible (Luke 15:11-32).
A few years ago, my wife and I were admiring the historic sanctuaries of Rome. Entering one of them, we caught a glimpse of a woman weeping at its door. After making the rounds of the sanctuary, she still hadn’t left. We approached her and asked if there was anything we could do to help. I was struck by her painful honesty. She replied, in stilted English, that she felt alone in the world, bereft of love. I shared with her what I believe, that we are children of the Heavenly Father, his sons and daughters. The Father loves us. She was not sure, but she allowed ust o pray for her. We prayed for her to experience God’s love. Through two Estonian tourists who met her, quite by chance.
I wish with all my heart that you may meet the God who loves you here, in the austere sanctuaries of Estonia, in the large and simple houses of prayer. It is in these places that for decades and hundreds of years peaople have asked and longed to experience God, His love and help, and given thanks for the new strength they have received. This is our chance to join them in our prayers.
I hope that although we are modest in our communication as Estonians, we can be an encouragement to each other as we meet.
Erki Tamm
Vice President of the Estonian Council of Churches