Feb-March 2020 Update

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I lift up my eyes to the hills.From where does my help come?My help comes from the LORD,who made heaven and earth.Psalm 121:1–2

With things rapidly shutting down here in the U.A.E. because of COVID-19, normal ministry has also been rapidly changing for us. Our first ever Arabic-English Spring Conference that was planned for this weekend had to be canceled. Over 70 students had been set to attend this time. We're also unable to meet up for Bible discussion groups. So, we're seeking God's wisdom and creativity in how to use this time to make much of Christ. So far, that involves praying together, reading, and checking in with students over WhatsApp, to find out how they're doing and and encourage them with truth. Having said that, we are full of hope that our God "sits enthroned over the flood...as King forever." (Psalm 29:10) At a time when people are feeling the most vulnerable and fearful, what an opportunity we have to share with them and shout with our lives the abundant hope, joy, and peace available in Christ! What a glorious gospel we have been entrusted with. It shines like a beacon of hope in the darkest of times. Let's use this time well! 

PR A Y   F O R   U S

• Pray for us to find creative ways to make much of Jesus and continue ministry with the mandated limited social interaction we now have.• Pray for the salvation of four Muslim students we're befriending: A, Z, M, and Y• Pray for our relationship with the Lord in personal devotion. We often feel distracted and unmotivated to spend time in the Word and prayer in the busyness of life and marriage. • Pray for our marriage, that we would grow in communicating graciously, valuing "the good of the relationship over our individual immediate needs" (Tim Keller), and considering "how to stir up one another to love and good works" (Hebrews 10:24). 

Here's a look at what the past couple months have looked like for us.

Playing pool with guys at NYU in Abu Dhabi–a fantastic context for conversation

Todd had the opportunity to visit a university student fellowship in Kazakhstan to learn from and encourage the group there.

Three muslim students we've had encouraging conversations with recently, alongside "Joy". 

FRIENDS! Dear friends from Ethiopia came to Dubai to purchase music equipment for their upcoming church plant. It made for a very encouraging and enjoyable time.

University Student lunch that our church put on as an outreach and encouragement

While Todd was away, Brittany had a sleepover with a few of the uni students she's been discipling and getting to know

Todd got to participate in a Simeon Trust weekend, studying the Book of Acts with men from numerous churches in the area.

Brittany got to participate in a Simeon Trust weekend as well, studying the Psalms with women from numerous churches in the area.