Dear Missionary Lady,
Greetings in the name of our loving Savior! Just a brief
message today to let you know that I am praying for you.
Many of you are deeply ensconced in the impact of this
global event, while others are just starting the process. The world is using
terms like "fear," "panic," and "crisis." The
event certainly has resulted in restrictions; the constant onslaught of
statistics, regulations, and other information is oppressive and heavy. And it
only gets worse when there are rumors and sensationalism.
In light of that, I have two thoughts. First, the human
spirit cannot support such a burden. Not without help. Our help comes from the
Bible. I have learned through past trials of life that sometimes the problem is
so intense that the focus on Scripture has to be frequent. I am being reminded
of that truth in this current situation. I can read my Bible in the morning and
be encouraged and calm. But then I go to work (required field meeting human
needs) and have the continual reminders and pressure, or I open my laptop and
get all kinds of new information, and these continual assaults can break down
my spirit IF I don't keep reminding myself of God's truth. I have been
purposefully choosing one verse each day that I can remind myself of and come
back to over and over. On my own I'm sunk, but God's Word has strengthening and
stabilizing truth and hope.
Second, people in trouble need to know that someone cares.
Most of the world is too overwhelmed to be able to care for anyone beyond
themselves. So we have opportunities. Even strong Christians can falter under
intense attacks, but I believe they quickly "adapt," getting strength
from God, stabilizing their spirits. Once they have reached some stability,
they want to help others. They want to care for and support those who are
hurting and don't have the same stability or even the same foundation. The ways
in which we can show our care for others may be very limited in these days, but
as we have opportunity, may we care - a smile, a kind word, a simple errand, a
prayer, and so on. I made cards for five supervisors and leaders at work, who
are scrambling to make adjustments and keep our company alive, thanking them
for their work and telling them I am praying for them. They were touched by
that kindness, and these evidences of caring will make a difference. They will
stand out in a world where people aren't doing those things anymore. Resulting
opportunities for the gospel will come, maybe immediately and maybe in months
or years down the road.
Even in the midst of restrictions, and especially in the
midst of chaos and hurt, what you do today matters for eternity. Continue
forward with God's strength.
Love in Christ,
Peggy Holt
member at Open Door Baptist Church in Lebanon, PA
www.pressingontohigherground.blogspot.com
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