As you’ve probably heard, Russia may soon invade Ukraine.
In light of these reports, TMAI’s missionaries in Ukraine have told us that they plan to remain in-country to “help during what could be Ukraine’s greatest time of need.”
One of our missionary faculty members shared his outlook on the situation:
“We have made some contingency plans because it seems like the wise thing to do, like buying some non-perishable food, water, a propane stove, and packing “bomb shelter backpacks” that are ready to go. But as Christians we are not here to survive. We are here to love the Lord with all our hearts and joyously give everything we’ve got toward the fame of the Almighty.”
When one of their students heard of their choice to stay, he responded by saying, “It is important to hear that our classes will continue [and] that you will not leave with the USA diplomats. To me and my brethren you are in this case an example of faith!”
And beyond the training programs, the men want to stay for the local churches. One TMAI missionary writes, “Our ministry includes pastoral shepherding. As for me, I am the only pastor in our church, and it is my privilege to pastor our people through this difficult time.”
Another adds:
“A major reason for us to stay is to help shepherd our people in our churches as well as to try and take advantage of gospel opportunities. Just today, my wife got to share the gospel with our neighbor, who is more open because of the threat of an invasion.”
Since the immediate future is so uncertain, our team in Ukraine is requesting prayer for the following:
- “Trust in the Lord for us and our families. Pray that we would not be fearful, but content in our weakness to be utterly dependent on His strength (Ps 16; 46). Please pray that He would make it very clear to us what He wants us to do (and not do) in each situation.”
- “For the salvation of Ukrainian and Russian soldiers (as well as the rest of the population). There have been several chaplains in the Ukrainian army who graduated from our seminary.”
- “Please pray for our students and faculty that we would be consistent in living for Christ, focused on preaching, teaching, and growing in the knowledge and practice of God’s Word, and not on the situation around us.”
No matter what happens, we know that the Lord is on His throne and He loves His people perfectly.
Thank you for praying with us,
Mark Tatlock, President
