Dear prayer partners,
For many people, the shape of daily life has changed dramatically over the last couple of weeks. In the beginning it felt as if new recommendations, regulations, and restrictions were being put in place by the hour in light of the COVID-19 virus. We rest in the truth that our God is unchanging (Mal 3:6; Heb 13:8), and that he takes care of us. We have no need to be anxious (Phil 4:6-7).
It was our intention to send out an update several weeks ago with some info on an upcoming trip to France that we are planning. We are thankful that in God's providence He delayed us in this, because now we can tell you about this trip while asking you to pray specifically about how the virus may effect our plans.
For those who may not have already heard, we plan to visit France for the month of August this year. Some missionary friends (the Teachouts in Bordeaux) are leaving for the US on furlough, and have graciously offered for us to stay in their house and use their vehicle while they are away. As we understand, we would be working alongside the Christys in their ministry, potentially preaching, teaching, and helping in various other ways. We might also use this time to hire a French tutor or enroll in a language program to continue moving forward with our acquisition of French.
All we can say right now is that these are our plans. It's hard to know for sure how things will have changed by August, but we hope and pray that some normalcy will have returned by then, and that international travel will be possible. Will you please pray with us about this?
Please also be in prayer for the cause of Christ in France right now. In reading prayer updates from some of our missionary friends in France we have learned that at least two French pastors closely connected with our friends on the field have been hit hard with the virus. They are struggling to even get the medical supplies they need to recover and prevent the spread of the virus to the rest of their family. How are you doing? If there is any way that we can serve you during this time please don't hesitate to reach out to us! Your friends, Michael, Jessica, Amelia, and Jack Dunlop.
Prayer Requests:
Pray for the health, safety, and continued ministry of the missionaries in France right now.
Pray for us as we seek to navigate deputation in a world where churches do not gather.
Pray for wisdom in the coming months as we make decisions about our planned trip to France.
Pray for us as we seek to find ways to serve our neighbors and church family through this time. We have handed out this flyer to around a dozen of our neighbors. Please pray that opportunities will come of it.
For other requests, see our website prayer page.