February 24, 2022

Dear Friends,

We were awakened before dawn this morning with several loud explosions. So it has begun. Russia has indeed invaded Ukraine. In my recent letter I had expressed that the situation here was largely calm and that I did not anticipate an immediate attack. But, I also said, that obvious things could change in a moment, and that has happened.

All Ukrainian airspace has been shut down so there are no commercial or private planes in the air. The borders have been shut down and travel between regions has been blocked. Martial law has been declared. The highways out of Kiev are in gridlock as many people are seeking to flee the city and country. Banks and ATMs are closed as well. The gas stations and grocery stores have incredibly long lines as people are trying to stock up.

These are the early hours and we have no way of knowing what will happen. Perhaps we will have more clarity in a day or two. In the meantime we are at home and still have electricity and internet. We are not in any immediate danger. We have food and water and plenty of firewood i we need it to heat the house.

Robby Dean is here in Ukraine right now. He came to teach at the Bible college, not expecting that the situation would deteriorate so rapidly. When things started to look dicey and KLM cancelled its flights out of Kiev, he decided to leave early on a different airline. However, when he went to get his PCR test he tested positive for Covid-19. So he had to wait a few days to get another test in order to be able to fly. With the travel restrictions on the highways he is unable to get out of the country at the present time.

We will keep you posted as we are able. I am confident that you will be in earnest prayer for us and for Ukraine. Pray for our safety. Pray that we will find a way for Robby to get safely home.

Pray also for Phyllis who has a severe case of bronchitis right now. Pray that we might glorify the Lord in the midst of all the chaos, and that this might be a great opportunity for the spread of the gospel and the spiritual growth of the believers.

Psalm 27:3 Though an army may encamp against me, My heart shall not fear; Though war should rise against me, In this I will be confident.

Psalm 27:5 For in the time of trouble He shall hide me in His pavilion; In the secret place of His tabemacle He shall hide me; He shall set me high upon a rock.

Psalm 27:14 Wait on the LORD; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the LORD!

Jim