Thank you for your continued prayer and support of God’s work during this time. We are hoping you have stayed well from coronavirus issues as has One Way International staff. I have stayed in contact with school administration for options to minister to staff as the school year winds down and with the owner of Kerrybrook Apartments for any needs that arise which OWI can help with. We will not return to Colonial Hills this school year as a volunteer group either in Kids Club or as staff support for the school. Staff are not permitted on campus unless there is a real need and even then, they may only go a few at a time as needed on a schedule and still following social distancing.
In the meantime, some of us have taken more time to read, pray, and study Scripture with the extra time they never have in their regular schedules. I’m reminded of Joshua 1:8-9 “Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your GOD is with you wherever you go.” What joy to have sweet L-O-N-G solace with our LORD!
Others have shared frustration, emptiness, and anger over the unconcern of some for human health, life, or greediness of people as the events of the virus unfolded. A quote I read from Ralph Waldo Emerson gave me pause over these feelings. “For every minute you are angry you lose sixty seconds of happiness.” I totally understand these feelings. When they pop up, text or call someone and tell them you care. Write a card to someone, grab your kiddos or spouse and hold them tight, or just say, “Help Lord!”
Still others have expressed ways they have found joy through these difficult circumstances. I have been blessed to hear of ways you have blessed others by purchasing groceries, taking walks together at a distance, taken in relatives to care for while social distancing from others, and arranging to provide food or meals for homeless and those in great need. One person has even sent me “things to make me laugh” by e-mail which I have forwarded to others. Thank you for sharing your joy. James 1:2-3 “Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow.”