Winter 2020
2 Timothy 1:13-14, “Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. That good thing which was committed unto thee keep by the Holy Ghost which dwelleth in us.”
As the government reinforces its measures, the maximum number allowed for gatherings here has been set at 25. We have been holding three Sunday morning services in person, plus Sunday evening and Wednesday online. We have been blessed to witness the dedication of our core people in the church, for attendance, service, and financial stewardship. While there is much to regret about the current social state of things, we cannot deny that the Lord has used it in our church as a pruning and sharpening instrument.
In the last few days and weeks, we have seen a spike in people inquiring about Christ, about the church, and seeking prayer and some hope in the Bible. This week, we have several meetings scheduled, in person at the church or via videoconferencing (distances can be problematic in the evenings in the metro area). In some cases, it is to share the Gospel again, with others it is for discipleship or yet for folks who have strayed from Christ and contacted us after COVID-19 gave them time to think (much like the prodigal son). Please pray for these different contacts, some of which have committed to being at church Sunday morning.
We have been canvassing some neighborhoods lately, and while personal interactions are rare with pandemic fears, we have received some feedback. We are doing doorhangers in the community, and we are also working on a mailout that will reach 10,000 homes before Christmas, with a corresponding social media campaign. Please pray that throughout the frustration and depression that is strongly felt in the community, the hope that is found in Jesus Christ will change their lives! We are earnestly evangelizing and expecting the Spirit to be at work in these days.
Our family is doing well, and we were blessed in the last two months to minister in British Columbia and Ontario. God’s people were so good to us and refreshed us. Overall, whether or not full freedoms ever return here, we are witnessing some things clearly: God is still on His throne; His arm is not shortened; He is still drawing people to Himself; He will save. This is not a time to be disheartened (although we have been from time to time, in full honesty), but rather a time to preach by any means available, to pray, and to watch the Lord give an increase.
On a personal note, we have begun homeschooling this fall, and the boys are doing well. Please pray for Melissa, Daniel, and Aiden, as mom and boys work at this. We praise God for His grace to our family and for the boys’ growth and their heart to serve the Lord. Thank you for the prayer and support; we trust that fruit will abound to your account as we see God do something beyond our abilities in this place!
In Christ,
Eric, Melissa, Daniel, and Aiden Léveillé
