Hello friends and family! I've had a few friends get in touch regarding the events currently occurring in Ukraine. Specifically, yes, I live in Sevastopol on the Crimean peninsula where the Russian naval base being discussed on the news is located. Have we seen the Russian military here? Yes and no. Their ships are on the sea. We always see Russian navy soldiers in Sevastopol because there is a base here. We are all safe. As for our presence here, we all have a tremendous peace, remain watchful of the news, and trust that the God who led us here in the first place is not caught by surprise. We have many options available if it becomes necessary to leave for our safety, but at the present time, we have a peace that passes our understanding and have no specific directions from God to go anywhere, no sense of alarm, just a tremendous peace. Prov. 1:33 says "whoever listens to me will dwell safely, and will be secure, without fear of evil." There is no safer place to be than in the center of God's will. Many of you have heard me say many times over the years that you are safer in the middle of a war zone in the center of God's will for your life than you are staying in the US and being disobedient. I remain watchful for the instructions of my heavenly Father and will leave quickly if He leads me to do so. However, other than His direction, I am remaining in the place of His grace for my life. This is not foolishness. I am aware of the risks and the news reports. Please realize that the news makes things look far worse than they actually are. I deeply covet your prayers for our protection and that we'd remain sensitive to the leading of the Lord. More importantly, your prayers for the protection of the Russian and Ukrainian people are deeply important. For us, this is an investment of our lives. We have a choice. For them, this is a total commitment. This is their country. We all continue to stand on 1 Tim 2:1-4 for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. God bless you all and thanks for your love, concern, and prayers!
