We are living in a moment that will make the history books. 2020 The year when the world shut down because of something small, invisible and dangerous: Covid-19. I remember when first hearing about the virus in China after Christmas thinking that it would be short lived and not really something that will affect my world. It would be like the Ebola outbreak or SARS, the swine flu or the bird flu and other flus before it. Something tragic in its region but not something that would affect my world. Amazing how we feel invincible until the harm is standing in our own backyard!
I think what strikes me most is how easily things can spread: germs, rumours, lies, and fear. It takes root, it multiplies and it wreaks havoc in each one it touches. Something invisible, seemingly harmless and yet potentially very dangerous.
What protects me is hope. Hope in a Saviour and a Sovereign Creator. Nothing is amiss by God. I know once this time passes and is a lingering memory I will look back and see the hand of God in each moment. Where he placed me during this time and how he was at work even when the world seemed to be crumbling.
It is hard not to be in Prague, near my community that I have come to know and love over the past 9 years. That God would have me back in Canada. Yet I know God would have me here for such a time as this. I am currently riding out the social distancing, lock down wave in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. I had planned to spend 8 weeks with friends to help with their 3 kids (11 month old twins and 2 year old) during part of my 6 month totalization. Being with the Buck family has been a blessing and has made a time of being in lock down and apart from family bearable.
So just a few snapshots of the cuteness I have had to endure.
Plans Derailed
I had plans to attend TeachBeyond's global conference in Slovenia in April. I was going to get to see many of my colleagues, encourage fellow missionaries and hear from an amazing speaker. I was set to return to B.C. on April 30th and visit friends in the Ok and the Shuswap. I had dreams of seeing my first class of grade ones graduate from KCS. Many of these plans have been put on hold and may even be cancelled.
What God is teaching me through Covid-19: my plans are not my own. To hold everything with open hands. I have been taught that flexibility is the best ability and it comes in very handy on the mission field, as constant change is a guarantee.
So as we travel uncharted waters we look towards the master, as we seek to strengthen our faith, knowing that he won't let us drown.
I pray for those battling the virus, those who have lost loved ones to it and to all the people who are struggling with the strains that this unusual pandemic has brought upon our world. May God be glorified amongst the suffering. May his truth be shared and the hope of the gospel continue to grow.
