Every single day we are bombarded with COVID-19 news and some sort of political brain bashing from one side or the other. The influencers of this world want to tell us what to believe, how we should feel, and how we should respond. We can’t responsibly opt out, but each of us must be wise and discerning, filtering what we allow into our minds, and proactively recognizing that the One who reigns supreme NEVER changes, NEVER loses control and NEVER ceases to care for His people.

Far from being locked down, we are finding creative ways to travel the world, “Zoom"-ing to different locations almost daily as we go about our Father’s business. This past week we have been (by internet) to Wisconsin, Philippines, Northern Ireland, Thailand, Colorado, Canada, Alabama and El Cajon. 

We were thrilled to welcome back Jodi (our daughter) & Jason and their two youngest from overseas. In a ridiculously short window of opportunity, Jason did a magnificent job organizing the evacuation and repatriation of 48 people from the island where they serve in Asia Pacific. To their surprise, both the American and Canadian Ambassadors welcomed his family when they arrived at the airport in the capital and presented him with a special award for his services to so many people from several different countries. They were on the very last flight to leave Asia Pacific since the government there closed all air, sea and land travel both domestic and international. They are presently in quarantine. Pray that they will keep in good health.  Dylan (10) and Jason are both at high-risk for the virus.

Cherri’s parents have had their struggles coping with isolation from each other. Being able to FaceTime using Cherri’s computer and a nurses iPad has helped of late. None of the residents at the nursing home are allowed outside except those who smoke.  Mom finally pleaded with the nurses to take her out when they take the smokers out at mid-day. They agreed, so she’s been thanking God for the chance to finally feel the sunshine, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the roses in the courtyard. (She and Dad also made a plan for him to drop off something that she needed at the exact time he knew she'd be out in the courtyard. They couldn't get close but they did get a glimpse of each other and wave.)

Please keep praying for our grandson Jakob who lives with us.  The company he had a job with ran out of work for him over two months ago even before COVID-19 was affecting the U.S., and they still have no work for him.  Please pray for him to find another job, and most of all that he will turn back to the Lord. 

Please continue to pray for us as we plan for the future days in southeast Asia once things are stable again. We have many new families and singles heading to the region, and we must be prepared ahead of time to assist them after arrival as they participate in life in a new and foreign community. We are also part of a team developing a new training program called Equip Asia. We hope to launch online in June with participants in the first class from as far afield as India, Myanmar  Siberia, Vietnam, and possibly the Philippines

There is much more going on in God’s world other than the search for sanitizing gel, disinfectant wipes and toilet paper! Let’s keep what God is doing first and foremost in our hearts and minds, and let’s bless those around us with acts of kindness and the love of Christ as it overflows from within.

We want you to know that we thank God for you and are praying for you.  We realize that many are going through real financial struggles during this time because of lack of work. May the Lord provide all that you need in His own special ways.  Thank you to those who sacrifice in order to help keep us in ministry.  And thank you all for your much-needed prayers!

With love and prayers,

Barrie & Cherri