Dear Partners and Friends,
Things are changing every day. The country is beginning to open up. States are allowing businesses to reopen and workers to go back to their jobs. But the response from people crosses a wide spectrum. Some are rejoicing; some are upset. Some say it should have happened sooner, but others are afraid we are moving too quickly. People are suffering and dying from the virus, while others are suffering due to extreme economic hardship brought about by the lock-down. The problems of today’s society are complex, but the answer is truly simple.
As believers in Christ, followers of the one we call “King of Kings and Lord of Lords,” we are challenged to truly believe Him and take Him at His Word. His Word assures us that “[He] will never desert you, nor will [He] ever forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5, NASB) In times like these, we should ask ourselves, do we truly believe this? Or are we hearers of the Word, and not doers, deceiving ourselves?
Please hear me out. I am not saying we have no problems. Some people have been laid off. Others are stuck in a home that is now filled with people. Parents and children are getting on each other’s nerves. Small businesses are teetering on the edge of bankruptcy. But for most of us in America, we have food to eat. Maybe not always what we want to eat, but something to
sustain us. We have a roof over our heads. Maybe your house needs some maintenance like mine does, but we should be thankful that we are not living on the street, like the people in this month’s story.
Let me exhort you: keep living your faith. Now is not the time to give up. We can see the signs of the times, so we know that the return of Christ is approaching. Keep reaching out to others. Keep praying. Keep sharing the message of the Gospel. And keep loving your neighbors.
As I have said in the past, if you need prayer or help in any way, please feel free to reach out to us. And please keep our brothers and sisters in India in prayer, as they face the same kinds of challenges that we face. Together we will overcome, and God will be glorified.
Blessings in the Wonderful Name of Jesus,
Thomas