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April 18, 2014

I Will Follow You

When the boat is tossed upon the waves
When I wonder if You’ll keep me safe
Even in the storms, I’ll follow You
Even in the storms, I’ll follow You” – Jon Guerra “I will follow you”

I have listened to this worship song many times in recent weeks.It feels relevant considering the bleak situation in Ukraine. The eastern regions of Ukraine are in chaos. Russian troops are on the Ukrainian mainland provoking violence and co-ordinating separatists to take over government buildings. Ukrainians are scared, and many in the east believe Russian propaganda that claims the current Ukrainian government are fascists and Banderivtsi (a radical group that hates Russians). The Russian news is filled with deception and lies. It is unclear if the military, police and government officials in the east are loyal to Ukraine or Russia. Russia is waiting for a pretext to bring in their troops and establish control. Putin wants to protect his sphere of influence and establish Russia as a world power again. Meanwhile, the rest of the world offers hollow support.

In the last month, Ukraine has made progress to shed light into corrupt areas of its government. The roots of corruption and sin are deep. Very deep. The greed is shocking. Progress is difficult. Reforming a country of 45 million is slow. Change is costly. We are proud of the Ukrainian church as it engages culture in these scenarios. Unfortunately families and churches in Russia and Ukraine are tragically divided over these issues. It feels like a storm that is unsurmountable.

Even in the storm described in Mark 4, when the disciples’ boat was tossed upon the waves, Jesus experienced peace. And at his command, calm was restored. I believe that even in the midst of this crisis, Jesus is offering peace. We have nothing to fear. We can find rest in Jesus in the midst of chaos. The Jesus we worship commands even the wind and the sea. He is the only one we can hope in. He is the risen Lord.

Even in the storms, we’re following Jesus.

Thank you for standing with us in prayer. Please pray for unity in Ukraine and for a peaceful end to this conflict.

Ben Williams EVP of National Ministries

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