Grace and Nick Lossev have spent their lives answering God’s call to share the love of Jesus with the world. Their journey has taken them from the islands of Micronesia to the bustling streets of Japan, planting churches and spreading hope wherever they went. But in 2019, they found themselves asking God a new question: 鈥淲hat鈥檚 next? How do we make a difference now?鈥
With open hearts, they prayed for guidance鈥攁nd God responded in an unexpected way. He opened their eyes to a unique mission field: the Jewish community. Inspired by the words found in Education, page 578, which declares that “many among the Jews will be converted” and that God’s truth will go forth like a “lamp that burneth,” Nick and Grace felt their hearts ignite with a fresh vision. They began leading Bible studies through the North American Division鈥檚 Jewish Adventist Ministries, starting on Zoom with groups on the East Coast.
The success of these studies spurred them to action closer to home. Based at the Novato Church, they started reaching out to the Jewish community in the Bay Area, where over 350,000 ethnic Jews live in Sonoma County, Marin, and beyond. With joyful determination, they began attending local restaurants and community events, striking up conversations and building friendships. To their delight, they found many Jewish individuals open to discussing biblical topics.
鈥淭he doors are opening!鈥 Nick exclaimed, amazed by how God was working. 鈥淲e鈥檝e even had people of the Jewish faith come to our church.鈥 Each encounter felt like a step forward in the mission God had set before them, and their hearts overflowed with gratitude for the opportunities.
Matt Matzela, the former pastor of Novato Church, watched with joy as the Lossevs’ ministry blossomed. 鈥淚t鈥檚 incredible to see the Jewish work moving forward in the Bay Area,鈥 he said. 鈥淭here is such a great need, and we are so thankful for Nick and Grace鈥檚 passion and dedication to this ministry.鈥
For the Lossevs, this work is more than a mission; it鈥檚 a calling that fills their hearts with hope. They believe that God has been preparing them all along for this moment鈥攖o bring His light to those ready to receive it. Every Bible study, every conversation, every connection brings them closer to the abundant life Jesus promises. With faith, joy, and a sense of adventure, they continue to share His love, one heart at a time.
Featured in 熟女探花 Lights, September 19, 2024
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