Drastic Measures
The COVID-19 continues to spread around the world. It seems that no matter where people are, the virus will have an impact. Politically, economically, and socially. All of our plans for the foreseeable future have changed...trips I (Ben) had scheduled overseas, meetings that needed to happen now in order for future ministry opportunities...everything has been cancelled or post-poned.
Our family is ok, and our routine hasn't changed much since we homeschool. However, all extracurricular activities have been cancelled, so there's more craziness in the house than usual! Still, we are doing our best to stay sane, yet active. We took the kids to the river to swim last week on a warm day--yes, swim! They all had wetsuits so it made it quite comfortable in the 55 degrees Fahrenheit water! ! Not too many other people were in the frigid water, so social distancing was easy.
 
One of the benefits of this time has been that we do have extra time as a family for other activities, such as board games and reading.
Here's how you can pray for us: Becky works PRN at the hosptial, so she never knows what floor she'll be on until she arrives at work. She's already filled in at the ER once, the front-line during this COVID-19 outbreak. Pray for protection for her while she serves in that capacity in this crucial moment in our nation's history.
What will be the spiritual impact of this COVID-19? With so many people worried or anxious about what this virus outbreak will do, or has already done in their lives and in our nation, we as Christians need to remember that we have many opportunities to fill the void. Where there is fear and worry, we can bring peace and joy. Where there is despair and doubt, we can bring hope and trust. Not in and of ourselves, or even our government leaders, but in Jesus Christ. He loves us, He will take care of us. Sometimes, the way He cares for us is through the Church! Our actions, our "works", which we have been prepared to do beforehand (Ephesians 2:10), should be a natural outflow of our relationship with Jesus. What can we do to respond to the needs in our specific communities? Is it picking up groceries or medications for the elderly or sick? Is it sharing out of your abundance with those who have lost jobs and can't afford groceries or their rent? How will the world look at the Church after this virus passed? What impact will WE have had?
There are already many stories of missionaries in other countries, and Christians in those countries, who are at the frontline in caring for the sick and the needy. If all of us are walking with Jesus daily already, this outbreak will just allow His light to shine even more clearly. We pray this is the case for you. And if not, it's never too late to start walking with Jesus. Remember, we don't need to fear. Caution, yes; wisdom, yes; but not fear. Take a minute to watch a great reminder by Billy Graham by clicking below on the link:
Please let us know how we can be praying for you during these days, weeks, and months ahead. Please let your church family know if you have needs--this is what the Early Church did--they shared what they had, cared for one another, spoke about and walked with Jesus...and the whole world noticed.
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