Dear Friends, in the midst of this global crisis, we’ve been thinking how God would have us pass through these events. We wanted to share some of our thoughts and frameworks with you regarding facing turbulent times.

After all our years in the Middle East’s chaos, it’s strange to think that this time, the crazy circumstances affect our friends back in the US as well. We’re sorry for all the different types of losses and challenges that you and your families are facing. It’s also been awesome for us to hear how y’all keep looking for ways to lovingly care for others.

Living in Beiroot (sic), we got used to abrupt changes. Throughout our twenty plus years there, we faced plenty of conflicts, war, bombs and rumors of such. All of which required that we make quick adjustments for days, weeks, sometimes even months at a time. But I had a context for all of that-- the war-like nature of the Middle East is a given.  As crazy as everything felt, there was a level of “predictability” to the unpredictability of it all.

Not this time.

For sure, God had us flex our muscles of faith as we repeatedly reflected on Luke 12:22-26: “Do not worry about your life, …And how much more valuable you are than birds! Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? …why do you worry about the rest?”

It is hard to fathom that now we would share these days of such “unpredictably” at such a global scope. Today, I’m thankful at least that we can flex those muscles of faith together.

Ten days ago, Israel announced they would be imposing harsh travel restrictions, and we had about twenty-four hours to decide if Faro*k (sic) would leave campus and come here with us. His university had just canceled in-person classes. (Who knew an entire university could transition online so quickly?) And since his university had some exposure to the virus, we had to talk through whether he would go to Virginia, potentially exposing his grandparents, or come here. At that time, who would have guessed that his case would not be unique.

Within days, many of his friends and ours are reeling from similar news of cancelled graduations, uncertain school schedules, and the “work” of having kids at home all day. Thankfully, he arrived here the day before Israel closed its border to non-citizens. Without a doubt, though, knowing that your family can be safe and together brings much peace. We feel with any of you that have to be separated.

With so many unknowns, people are naturally dealing with fear. A verse someone shared with me a few years ago in a similar chaotic context comes to mind, 1 John 4: 18. “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear.” My tendency was to believe that alleviating the trigger of fear---possible sickness, hunger, loss of income, etc…. would take care of the fear. Not true. Addressing those things is awesome, and can be loving. But, even if someone feels safe, fear can reign until it is cast out with love.

So, we train our thoughts that as anyone feels fear, or is around others who are afraid, to remember to respond to fear with love. It’s wonderful to hear from some of you acting out in love to others in need—giving out food instead of hoarding, spending on others, and not just saving. God does love us. He showed and gave the perfect love for each one of us. And it’s awesome that we get to give that gift of love as we interact with others, particularly those less capable than ourselves. Amazing to think, that even though we maybe be able to do very little to overcome the virus, we can do so much to overcome fear. Love.

Two practical ways to show love come to mind.

First, we address our hearts to ensure we maintain a spirit of peace and share hope—always words of hope. Not made-up hopes, but words that can address the reality of someone’s current situation, along with deeper words about Jesus that address the hunger in their hearts created by such anxiety and uncertainty.

Second, connect. Folks are being cut off from their daily network of relationships. And they may be mandated to isolate even more to some extent. Whoever we are with, we should slow down, listen, and feel with them so they will feel our connection.

In light of this crisis, I’ve also begun to understand this country a bit more as I interpret Israel’s response and try to be sensitive to those around me. Folks here are wired to first process all threats as potentially existential. This doesn’t apply only to military issues. It’s part of the country’s DNA. I’d say Israel has probably responded to the virus quicker and more drastically than any other country. Israel began stocking up on masks and tests for weeks before the virus even made its way here. Prime Minister Netanyahu announced a full lock-down last night, enforced by army patrols in the streets.

I must admit, sometimes it’s hard to not meet such extreme edicts with a bit of skepticism (especially given the political intricacies of Israeli government). But as I watch world news and the reaction of other countries, I find myself more peaceful when I reflect on 1 Peter 2:17: “Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor.” As I can honor the leaders, giving them the benefit of the doubt, praying for them—and still allowing some room for critical thinking, I find more peace in my heart. I also feel better equipped to be helpful to others with growing anxiety, and to those who are less capable than us in responding to the changing needs of circumstances.

Check out this video near our daughters’ neighborhood- thanking health workers nationwide. **https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bkbDDMxSiewWell.**

I hope you didn’t mind me sharing some of these thoughts. I find it helpful, and hopefully you will be encouraged as well. (I’m considering sending out similar emails every week or so, though they will hopefully be more concise. If it’s something you’d be interested in, please reply to this with a short note so I can keep track. I do ask that you please you don’t forward this email though.)

With much love,

ED