Thanksgiving

March 18, 2020

First of all, I’m very thankful for all the support and love that has been shown to me through my spiritual brothers, sisters, fathers and mothers in Christ. The calls, texts, prayers, and help offers have been very good for my heart and mental state. I might not have replied, because it’s honestly been overwhelming. One thing I am sure of is that God is awesome. He still sits on His throne.I am aware I just travelled for a spring break missions trip, so I should be careful. I am in self quarantine in my dorm room right now. Thanks to my parents and mentors’ advice, I am now taking more precautious steps in social distancing. My heart breaks for all the international students around the world who are not able to go back home due to the circumstances. I first heard about the situation after our trip, and it was a heavy message for the team. As we held each other, I couldn’t cry. It seemed unreal. My only desire was to be home. But I’m reminded that this is not our home, we have hope for a future kingdom. On Sunday a case found in Guatemala. I am very thankful that our newly elected President has taken action in preventing the growth of this virus in the country by closing the airport for weeks, but I am deeply mourning that my country has closed its borders to me. I am back at Wheaton College, and packing my things right now, unsure of what will happen next. We’ve tried to be as normal as it could be, but it’s really strange. Almost everyone has gone home and most are leaving today or latest on Sunday. I’m really thankful because we’ve had hot showers, water to drink, abundant food to eat, a bed to sleep in, friends to talk with, and continuous prayer. I’m thankful they are allowing us to do so. Knowing that things may get worse, I have other options with friends nearby, missionaries who are graciously opening up their homes to me. However, I will stay on campus for two weeks as a responsibility to myself and for the health of others. I do not have any sicknesses or symptoms of any illness, but I am still taking this action of caution because my parents are wise. After these two weeks, I will decide what to do based on circumstances then. I will probably have to move from my dorm room to an apartment sometime, so I am still packing my things. Things are very confusing and there is so much uncertainty, but I trust that God is in control.I am so sure that God is a good Father and that even during these times of world chaos and fear, I know that God will be glorified. Lord, hear the cry of those who are in pain, suffering, hunger, homeless, and may your name be the source of hope that all have. Lord allow your church to rise now and give a helping hand to their neighbor. Love casts out all fear. May we live with a certainty that God is seated on His throne and that He is in control. May we love God and love others. I will update as soon as things change. Praying continuously. “Hear my cry, O God; listen to my prayer. From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I. For you have been my refuge, a strong tower against the foe. I long to dwell in your tent forever and take refuge in the shelter of your wings. For you, God, have heard my vows; you have given me the heritage of those who fear your name. Increase the days of the king’s life, his years for many generations. May he be enthroned in God’s presence forever; appoint your love and faithfulness to protect him. Then I will ever sing in praise of your name and fulfill my vows day after day.”‭‭Psalms‬ ‭61:1-8‬ ‭God go before you