{"id":39173,"date":"2026-03-26T11:57:12","date_gmt":"2026-03-26T16:57:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/internationalministries.org\/?p=39173"},"modified":"2026-03-26T12:31:00","modified_gmt":"2026-03-26T17:31:00","slug":"grateful-in-the-midst-of-the-fire","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/internationalministries.org\/grateful-in-the-midst-of-the-fire\/","title":{"rendered":"Grateful in the Midst of the Fire"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-39176 alignleft\" src=\"https:\/\/internationalministries.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/FirePic-300x225.jpeg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Friday, March 20, has been a day marked by both inspiration and unexpected trials\u2014yet held together by God\u2019s sustaining presence.<\/p>\n<p>Earlier in the day, I concluded a Gen Z Global Virtual Gathering, where Qrysha Singh, a South African youth leader shared a deeply moving testimony of her journey of faith. Her story was a powerful reminder that God is at work across generations and nations, drawing young leaders into His mission in ways that inspire hope and courage.<\/p>\n<p>Just a few hours later, however, our day took a dramatic turn. While Eva and I were resting on the second floor of the church parsonage, an electrician working in the basement urgently called for us to evacuate\u2014the house was on fire.<\/p>\n<p>The fire began on the third floor, the very space where my podcast studio is located. This is the room where I regularly teach 28 students in Asia, mentor leaders from around the world, and record the World Class Podcast. That space sustained extensive damage, and parts of the second floor were also affected. By God\u2019s grace, Eva and I were able to get out safely, and we were not harmed. While we are deeply shaken, we are profoundly grateful for His protection over our lives.<\/p>\n<p>The damage is significant, and the house will need to be demolished and rebuilt. Even in the face of this loss, we are trusting God\u2019s guidance and presence as we begin the process of recovery.<\/p>\n<p>In the days that followed, I had the privilege of appearing as a guest on a podcast hosted by Rev. Eric Krainhanzel, where I shared about my ministry with International Ministries. Even in the midst of this challenging season, it was a meaningful reminder that God\u2019s work continues through our efforts to equip leaders, foster discipleship, and join Him in His global mission.<\/p>\n<p>We would deeply appreciate your prayers as we navigate this unexpected season\u2014prayers for wisdom, discernment, and encouragement as we rebuild, and for continued clarity and effectiveness in ministry. Your support and encouragement mean a great deal as we move forward.<\/p>\n<p>Even in the midst of fire and loss, we remain grateful for God\u2019s presence\u2014faithful, steady, and near.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Friday, March 20, has been a day marked by both inspiration and unexpected trials\u2014yet held together by God\u2019s sustaining presence. 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