Engaged from Afar

During this pandemic, it has forced us to look at our fundamental beliefs. I just shared a devotional on God’s love and sovereignty. God invites us to know him intimately, knowing who He is, His attributes. So, when hard times come, those attributes of God become an anchor for us, depending on Him. We never have to doubt that God loves us and knows what is best for us. Plus, He is sovereign, He is in complete control. We can sleep well, resting in Him.

The borders to the Philippines remain closed so we have rebooked our flights to the end of October. Manila has relaxed some of its restrictions and is at General Community Quarantine. Businesses will begin opening up and a limited amount of public transportation will be available. Some believe that they will not open their borders until January.

Walter can do his ministry remotely. Since the Philippines is 13 hours ahead of us, Walter’s weekday is from Sunday night to Thursday night. The hours for his job have changed to second shift, working from 6 pm to midnight (sometimes later). That has been an adjustment for us as Walter is more of a morning person. He does several Zoom meetings and Google Meet calls each week and lots of emails and projects. All done on his computer. Cheryl is not able to have student contact but has been able to attend staff meetings, also by Zoom.

Walter went to his doctor as he was concerned about two lumps and we found out that he has a double hernia. He is not in pain, so he does not have to have surgery in the near future, but pray for wisdom to decide where and when to have the surgery. (It would be cheaper in the Philippines.)

Please pray with us that the borders will open up in God’s timing and all the staff and students will be able to get back to the Philippines and that we will be able to have face-to-face classes as soon as God wills it. We are thankful for having a current valid visa but pray that the new and returning staff will be able to obtain a visa prior to entering the Philippines.

Thank you for your faithful prayers and support for us as we minister virtually at Faith Academy from afar.

Walter and Cheryl Spicer