Does God Still Work in Chaos? – Staying

The outbreak of COVID-19 has had repercussions on mission sending agencies around the world.  Many organizations have had to make the difficult decision to bring field workers home.  In other cases, workers were not able to extend visas forcing people to make a quick decision to return when flights were scarce. This ever-changing landscape can quickly become disheartening, and you inevitably ask the question, “Is God still working in the chaos?” We can testify that He is!

Recently, we received an update from one GSI field worker who is doing translation work in an unreached people group in South East Asia.  He is in the unique position of not being forced to leave during the pandemic. He and his family made the decision to stay in a place where medical care is minimal in order to carry on with Bible translation. It’s conscious choices like these that bring the gravity of reaching the nations in contrast to personal safety.  It brings a newfound meaning to the last part of the Great Commission, where Christ says,”…I will be with you always…” Here is their story in their own words.

It has taken eleven months to translate, edit, and check the translation for comprehension thus far, which means we’re averaging four verses a day. If my math is right, that puts us translating the first Christmas as early as the end of October. That’s eleven employees and a few of their family members clearly understanding the implications of the most foundational passages from creation up to the climax of His story. As exciting as that seems, all we are really doing is providing the essential spark, and it’s up to each person hearing His story whether they will receive it or reject the ramifications of this new perspective. 
 
Bible translation is crucial to progressing towards the long term goal of seeing a church planted among this particular people group. My wife and I are flabbergasted to see many foreigners return to their home countries because of the pandemic. We have not been impeded in the least. Praise Him with us. He continues to work amid the chaos.

Would you pray with us for this family and others who have made the brave choice to stay to carry on the work?  Also, pray for these eleven employees and family members that they would be convicted with the truth of God’s Word and that they would be saved from a future chaos far worse than COVID-19.

How can we help your church be equipped to join God in His mission both locally and globally? Contact us and let us know.

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