As part of an international media ministry, we at Today have the privilege of working with colleagues from our nine other languages ministries. When COVID-19 first hit China, I heard firsthand accounts from our Chinese ministry team about how the pandemic was devastating the country and its people.
In response, we asked Today readers like you to send an encouraging message to believers in China.
I’ve been amazed by how God has worked since then.
We received 129 responses from Today readers like this one from Terri:
“It is so nice to connect with people around the world and share the blessings of our God! No matter where you are, remember there are others who share your beliefs and wish you much happiness!”
Our Chinese ministry team translated these messages and shared them with more than 200,000 followers who read God’s Word in Chinese every day, oftentimes the same passages that we read in Today.
As Chinese-speaking believers read the messages from their North American brothers and sisters, they responded in kind.
“I'm moved by your messages,” worte Fei. “Even though we don't know each other, and have never seen one another, I fully believe that we are family in Christ.”
Herb wrote, “I cried at the sight of your letters, out of love. Only in the love of Christ will strangers from thousands of miles away become a family in Christ that loves one another. I follow the epidemic that's going on in your country every day and I pray for you.”
For others, the messages they received from English speaking Christians like you helped break down preconceived notions of the “other.”
“When I was young, many told me that you were the enemy,” wrote Chengjun. ”But I know you are not. Instead, you are my friends. Now in Christ, I firmly believe that you are not only friends, but also brothers and sisters!”
God worked in a mighty way through this digital exchange to connect and encourage believers around the world. I hope these responses encourage you.
I’d like to invite you to read a few more reflections on this topic from Today authors.
Jordan An
Kurt Selles
Jordan An
Christopher Hunt
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