November 2020

"I just feel...so...happy!"We all sat together in the IKEA cafeteria down the road from church, with two freshly baptized friends. Ivan couldn't stop smiling as he recounted the ways God drew him and revealed Himself to him over this past year, resulting in his conversion and baptism. Our friend from Saudi was also baptized that night, and both have become members of our church.These are two people we've been able to walk closely with over the past year. Witnessing their baptisms a few weeks ago was an overwhelming joy. As a church, we have been studying the book of Acts. How wonderful it is to be reminded that the redeeming work of Jesus Christ continues today, 2000 years later, because of our faithful, merciful God.This semester has been a tough one, but God still continues working in glorious ways!

A Socially-Distanced, Area-Wide Prayer Meeting Held in One of Dubai's Beautiful Parks

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This was a sweet time to reconnect, pair up, and pray for one another. The turnout was much greater than we expected, which reminded us afresh of how God is working in these students. 

Baby Is Growing!

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Brittany had her 15-week appointment recently and got to see our squirming, growing, precious treasure. The doctor confirmed all is well, and our anticipation grows to meet our child!

Christmastime Is Here

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This year we plan on staying here for our first Christmas in Dubai. Ivan came over after church for popcorn, a Christmas movie, and tree decorating. We're so grateful for the community and opportunities surrounding us this Christmas season!

Apple Pie

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Our friendship with our Bulgarian neighbors, Chris and Vania, is developing and we are so glad. A couple weeks ago we had them over for apple pie and conversation. Towards the end of the evening, we found ourselves exploring the subject of the meaning of marriage and how it reflects the gospel. Pray for our friendship to continue!

- An American Thanksgiving in Lebanon -

Being on the field, we recognize the need for the support of fellow-workers nearby. That's why we visited the Barbour family in the Beqaa Valley of Lebanon over the week of Thanksgiving. This trip was a sweet, sweet 5 days of fellowshipping, cooking, and exploring with our dear friends. 

The Barbours moved to Lebanon right on the cusp of Covid back in February, seeking to bring the gospel to Syrian refugees. It was amazing to witness their love for these precious people (Lebanese and Syrian). Please pray for our friends as they work through this challenging season of transition. 

As a side note, this trip was a big blessing to our marriage. We got time together, in the wildness of nature, which is a rare gift to us and was particularly refreshing. 

- Student Leader Campfire -

Our team honored some of the student leaders by taking them out to the desert last week. Gathered around a campfire beneath the Dubai skyline, we reflected on the faithfulness of God and encouraged them for their creativity, perseverance, and courage as they have continued reaching out to their friends on campus and virtually, while navigating restrictions and reservations of fellow students. All in all, we're so encouraged by how God continues to work in these brothers and sisters, sanctifying them by the truth of His Word and power of His Spirit. As we turn our attention now to closing out the semester, we would covet your prayers in these areas: 

- Pray with Us - 

• Our friend from Saudi will return home for winter break. Pray for wisdom and courage as she navigates living with her Muslim family as a new Christian (they don't know of her conversion yet).

• Pray for us to pursue discipline and selflessness day-to-day, looking for opportunities to serve others and grow in holiness. 

• Pray for Ivan to find a new housing situation with Christians. His uncle (who he's been living with) is moving back to the Philippines. 

• Pray for students of FOCUS to prioritize their relationship with the Lord and Christian community during winter break.

• Pray for the Barbour Family in Lebanon to find daily refreshment and peace in Christ, and to find a healthy church they can join. 

Morning by morning they gathered it,each as much as he could eat.Exodus 16:21---

Morning by morningMercies arise,Soaking the landscapeBefore our eyes.Take all you needFrom His bountiful hand;It's more than enoughFor your sin, work, and plans.Don't think of tomorrowThough fears may be great;There's no need to gatherFor future mistakes,For goodness and mercyWill follow you there,Rushing aheadOf your worry and care.So, rise up to meetAll the gifts He's prepared.- Brittany Hope, 11.24.20 -