Dear members and friends of IBC,

I was blessed by the words of some fellow missionaries, though in another country. I am taking the liberty to pass on their reflections, since I believe they will encourage each of us in these difficult times:

Whenever faced with a big challenge I like to develop a mental framework to guide my thinking and response. For this current “corona-crisis” I am clinging daily to three key words that bring clarity and guidance.

Grace — this is about how we treat others. Paul wrote, “The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.” When I live with confidence that the Lord is taking care of me and my concerns, then that gives me the heart-level margin I need to graciously look out for others. Many people are under tremendous stress these days. Let’s make a point of being extra-kind, not demanding that we get our own, and calmly absorbing what others may be dishing out. No matter how much we give, our Father still has plenty more!

Grit — this is about how we engage with the crisis. Our Father may put us through the crucible. He may allow suffering in our lives. But He doesn’t waste the pain! He uses it to cultivate our humble dependence on Him and to burn off the dross. With this end in mind, endurance and perseverance are what allow us to embrace what our Father is accomplishing without losing hope or giving up. Let’s set our eyes on Jesus and remember that our Father rewards those who earnestly seek Him!

Gratitude — this is about our attitude before the Lord. Thankfulness arises from the recognition that we have received a gift. We need to live with an awareness of our Father’s great blessings in our lives. An attitude of gratitude is our right response and part of what makes us whole. Let’s thank our Father for his provisions and thank others for how they enrich our lives.

 Finally, don’t let this crisis go to waste! Let’s think of our work and seek the Lord for creative ideas. Now, as always, we should focus on intentional, relational, generational shepherding!

I find these words challenging and uplifting! I hope you do too.

Be blessed,

Pastor Dan