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UNEXPECTED CHALLENGES
The Harshes are healthy! Last month Roger and Elizabeth visited the United States to do some university searching for Elizabeth. They landed in Chicago where they visited two schools Elizabeth was interested in. During our three weeks Stateside Roger and Elizabeth visited schools in Illinois, Michigan, and Ohio. They had many good times with friends and family, but it was a real whirlwind of a trip. It was great to visit several of you along the way. Thank you for the hospitality that many of you showed us!
Roger and Elizabeth were scheduled to fly back to Europe, Roger to Czech Republic and Elizabeth to Spain. Then the Coronavirus hit the States. Globally, many nations began to monitor who could enter and leave their borders. The Harshes were concerned Roger and Elizabeth would not be able to leave the United States. Finally, they were informed that since Roger has permanent residence in the Czech Republic and Elizabeth has a Czech passport, they could fly back to Europe. They had to go to the airport several times, because some of the legs to their flights were being canceled. Then, Elizabeth was informed that she could not fly into Spain, her flight was rerouted to Prague. Roger was scheduled to fly through London and Elizabeth was scheduled to fly through Frankfurt. Then last minute Elizabeth's flight from Frankfurt, Germany to Prague was canceled.
The Harsh family was looking at many different options to try and bring her back from Germany. Robin was unable to cross the border to go get her and bring her back to Czech. Flights were not coming into Prague from Frankfurt and neither were public buses. Finally, our friend found out that the Czech consulate in Berlin, Germany, arranged a bus from Frankfurt to Prague, due to so many Czechs being stranded in Frankfurt. The bus drivers were in protective wear and masks. Hand sanitizer, plastic covered seats, water, and snacks were provided for passengers. We are so thankful that the Czech consulate took action to help people get back home. The family would like to thank those of you who were praying and those who were ready to take action if need be.
Now, Roger and Elizabeth are in self quarantine in Prague for two weeks. Because they were in the States prior to the state of emergency, they were allowed to return. However, since they were in, what Czech considers, a risk country for the virus, they cannot even go outside. It would be a $130,000 fine! The country is on lock down and people can go to the grocery store, bank and other "essential" locations. It is MANDATORY that we wear masks outside of our homes! Josiah is in his senior year of high school. Like many of your children he is at home working online. Hockey stopped immediately on March 13th when the government announced restrictions. Josiah will see if he gets to do his last high school drama production. Roger and Robin are on Zoom quite a lot these days. They meet with the Prague team daily. Robin continues her women's Bible study. They have multiple opportunities to 'meet' with several people for personal discussions and prayers online. The YWAM Central Europe team is holding a week long prayer time throughout the region this week.
In this time the Harsh family has been meditating on Psalm 91. It has been a great source of courage and comfort, helping them keep their minds on the LORD's ability to lead and speak to them during this time.
May the Lord keep you safe and healthy. Remember to do self and mutual care! Feel free to drop the Harshes a note; they'd love to pray for you during this time.
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