Dear Friend,
Happy Easter! How wonderful it is to focus on this celebration amid these unprecedented days. Though we find ourselves grappling with uncertainty and fear, God has not abandoned us.
Throughout the ages (and recorded countless times in the Bible), God has exhorted his people to not be afraid. Why? Because he has always had a plan to save us. Jesus came as the Son of Man to make the ultimate sacrifice for humankind. He gives us the gift of eternal hope when we surrender our lives to him. And that is the message we want to focus on this Easter — we overflow with hope because of Christ!
We are living in a truly unique time of world history. Covid-19 has impacted almost every nation across the globe. Our inboxes are oversaturated with news, mainstream media is full of distressing headlines, and conversations not about the virus are a rarity.
The Arab world is no exception. A few days ago, our ministry team went live on Facebook for the first time. And our contacts asked questions…
I’m a new Christian, but I’m afraid. I have the virus. Is God judging me because I left Islam?’
‘What is the biblical interpretation of what’s happening? How can we get rid of this epidemic?’
‘Psalm 91:5-7 says You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday. A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you. Does this promise mean God will protect us from the coronavirus?’
Though much of the world has come to a standstill, our online ministry has not. More people than ever are turning to the internet for answers, comfort, or community. WhatsApp has seen a 40 per cent increase in usage globally, Facebook 37 per cent, and Instagram Live views doubled over a single week*. Our ministry Facebook page saw an 86 per cent traffic increase in March, and our ministry website has had a steady increase in page views from 20 March.
We are rejoicing at this opportunity to shine his light in the darkness. And what better time to share the gift of salvation than over Easter! Our responders continue to share the gospel daily with hundreds of seekers — when all seems hopeless, we point to Jesus who is offering everlasting hope.
As we are all in our homes celebrating this year, we’ve provided you with a downloadable colouring booklet (link below). We hope these will be a fun and reflective activity for you and your families over Easter. There are four designs available focusing on the joy, peace, hope, and faith that Jesus has given us through his salvation. Get creative and share them on Instagram or Facebook. Tag us @arabworldmedia — we’d love to see your art!
Download colouring booklet
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. — Romans 15:13 (NIV)
Be blessed and hopeful,
*Source: Tech Crunch