Dear Praying Friends & Family,

Many of us had a “20/20 Vision” theme for this year, but nobody saw 2020 coming! If the Coronavirus pandemic has taught us anything, it is that life is fragile, but God is faithful. Yes, things are different, even difficult, as we continue our lockdown here in Colombia, but we refuse to complain. We recognize that neither our God nor his Word is bound. He continues to work mightily! 

Difficulty Prompts Creativity

Colombia went on full quarantine on March 20th, and it isn’t stopping anytime soon. Our outreach, discipleship, counseling, and teaching ministries all look vastly different from a few months ago, but the work continues. We thank God for modern technology to creatively minister. Daily, people meet virtually for corporate prayer, group training, and one-on-one discipleship. We also push out Gospel content and preaching daily to the masses on social media. Pray as we continue to adapt to the restrictions placed upon us.

Difficulty Propels Generosity

We have witnessed first-hand the generosity of God’s people, both in the States and here in Colombia. Many of you have sent special offerings during this time, and we are sincerely grateful! God has taken care of us. Whether you are a new or long-time supporter of our family and ministry, thank you! Additionally, our people have given like never before to meet the needs of their brothers and sisters in Christ who are not as fortunate. Even as many faithful members lose their jobs, the church offerings have increased. It is genuinely baffling. Because of this generosity, we have assisted hundreds of people with groceries and basic needs. God’s people respond this way in times of adversity! 

Difficulty Proves Sincerity

Whenever persecution comes (or any pressure in life), it reveals what is on the inside. Curiously, and sadly, during the past two months, I have had several hard conversations with people who attended our church but have now drifted away, either to apostasy, false doctrine, or indifference. I believe God will use this pandemic to purge his church of those who do not sincerely believe. There will always be those who consider themselves Christians because it is convenient, or because they have accepted a false gospel. May our version of Christianity always align with Christ and his Word. 

Difficulty Produces Simplicity 

This pandemic has been a blessing to us! Through it, God has stripped away much of the busyness and assiduity of life and forced us to slow down. Our family has enjoyed much more quality time together to study God’s Word, teach our kids songs of faith, cook, and enjoy meals together, and pray for those around us. We did these things before, but not to the same degree. Though we continue to minister daily, we must contemplate what ministry is all about. The quarantine has taken away our ability to fulfill much of what the church is supposed to do, and maybe God allowed it to reveal how much we need to get back to the basics. Christ commissions us to make disciples of all nations. Christ commands us to gather faithfully and connect sincerely with his church to love, correct, help, and teach one another. Christ called us to be salt and light in the world. Have we made “church” and Christianity more about an event than following Christ? 

Difficulty Provides Opportunity

Currently, in Colombia, our total lockdown is in effect until July, and the “health emergency crisis” is declared until the end of August. Despite the abundant changes and challenges, there are more open doors than ever to reach the lost world around us. People need hope, and we have that hope. Let us not back down; instead, let us advance in the mission! Our family is in it for the long haul.  

Aubrie and I, along with the girls, send you our greetings and sincerest love. We are deeply grateful for your prayers and financial support. We are praying you and are here for you if you need to reach out to speak to a friend. 

For Christ the King,
Aaron, Aubrie, Amira, Anabel, Aris & Alethea Vance