21 March
So much has changed since my last update. So far, we have had 9 short term teams cancel their mission trip to Romania this year. As you can imagine, this changes our ministry a lot. So much of what we do depends on teams coming here to help because we are just a small team here in Craiova. When we have teams here, we are able to reach and impact more people. And now with the restrictions that have been put into place, we are not allowed to meet for church anymore or do a lot of the things we had planned.
So we have been praying and God has given us a new strategy of reaching people and still being able to continue on with our goals for 2020. As many others, we are working on different ways to reach people through the internet. We’ve already made several videos to encourage people and bring hope. Until now, I’ve been going to work everyday like normal. It seems like things may be changing shortly and we may need to stay in our homes unless we go to the grocery store or pharmacy. I know there are places that are already dealing with that.
The coronavirus is spreading all over the world. I’m sure many people are afraid and anxious. I understand. But I want to encourage all of you with some in-your-face kind of truth, even though this may seem a little insensitive.
“I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after your body has been killed, has authority to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him.” Luke 12:4-5 NIV
But then it continues.
“Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” Luke 12:6-7 NIV
Guys, God sees you. He knows what is happening. For a lot of us worrying comes pretty natural. We can worry about anything, but again, God’s Word has something to say about this.
“So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Matthew 6:31-33 NIV
What are you doing to seek God’s Kingdom and righteousness today?
Having food and water and toilet paper is good. It’s wise to be prepared. But what are you doing for others? How will you help someone today? How will you encourage or pray for someone today? Will you make the right decision when a situation presents itself even if it causes you suffering or means you will have a little less food or water or toilet paper? Will you suffer so that others can have? Lots of questions that are going through my head right now. I hope they will get you thinking as well.
I had someone tell me today that I should just go home. What am I doing here during this time when I should be home with my family? Are they right? During this time of suffering, when so many people are hopeless here in Craiova. People are so afraid of this virus and of dying. Should I go home to be with my family who knows Christ? They know Jesus. They have eternal life. They know where they are going after they die. They are safe and secure in their homes. I could be safe and secure with them. I love my family so much! Anybody who knows me, knows I care about my family. They love me too, a lot! But what about the people here in Craiova? They do not know Jesus. They don’t have eternal life. They don’t know where they are going after they die. They don’t have hope. Where do you think I am most needed?
