SPRING 2020 AND VIRUS UPDATE

FOR SUCH A TIME AS THIS

“For if you keep silent at this time, relief and deliverance will rise
for the Jews from another place, but you and your father's house will perish.
And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom
for such a time as this?” Esther 4:14 ESV

The Lord put Esther in just the right place to accomplish His will at the perfect time. And Esther risked everything, even her own life, to humbly and obediently complete the assigned task. Likewise, our Heavenly Father has positioned LAMP precisely where He requires so that we can fulfil His plan in a manner that pleases Him.  This was true fifty years ago when LAMP was founded, and it is still true today.

The current global pandemic is having a profound effect on First Nations communities and how LAMP continues to minister to them.  All of the reserves have justifiably initiated restricted access to all those who are not residents. This is certainly understandable, as there would be rapid spread of the virus once it took hold. LAMP shares these concerns as we value and respect these communities and we pray for their safety and well-being.

LAMP will continue to minister to our northern friends in whatever way that presents itself. A few of our teams had spring trips planned and these had to be cancelled. At this point in time there is uncertainty as to whether the reserves will be accessible during this summer. Our teams’ initial disappointment quickly turned into excitement as they began to explore new and innovative methods to engage with the communities that they love.

Currently LAMP staff and volunteers are connecting their Northern contacts in any manner possible. We are using phone calls, emails, mailing personal notes and other electronic means to ensure our communities that they will never be forgotten nor forsaken by our Heavenly Father. Some teams are sending Easter care packages to encourage their friends and to be a relief during this time of isolation. We are exploring alternate ways to provide our summer ministries in the event that this situation does not improve. Please pray for us as we seek the Lord’s wisdom and strive to discover how He wants LAMP to serve Him and His people in such a time as this.

WINTER TRIPS

Only a short while ago, things seemed to be normal. During the winter season I was blessed to take two trips to my communities. In December and February, I was able to distribute a large quantity of warm quilts, knitted items, Bibles, baby bundles, youth magazines and infant and toddler’s clothing. I had the pleasure of delivering a large Christmas gift from St. Aidan’s Anglican Church (Winnipeg) to their newly adopted community of Leaf Rapids. Likewise, Peace Lutheran Church (Winnipeg) sent a wonderful present to Pelican Narrows, SK. I returned to Winnipeg in late February tired, happy, and unaware of what lay ahead.

THANK YOU

I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to all my prayer partners and supporters. These are very difficult times for the entire globe, including the First Nations people of Northern Canada. We appreciate your prayers for LAMP staff and volunteers. As the Spirit prompts, please keep our friends who reside in these difficult to reach communities in your prayers. May the Creator of heaven and earth keep you healthy and safe. May He, in His mercy, bring this season to a quick resolution.