Safety

A Mighty Fortress is our God. Psalm 18:2 says "The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold." It is only after the last few days that I can begin to get an inkling of understanding what this scripture means. On Tuesday morning we learned that things had gotten more intense here in Jos and they were about to enforce a 24 hour curfew. We were given about 5 minutes to pack and load the van before fleeing Jos to stay in Miango, about 10 miles out of town. Miango is the village that Dr. Itapson held his first position as an associate pastor. We stayed at Kent Academy Tuesday and Wednesday night. So much has happened over the last 4 days, but I am not going to be able to write about it all right now. We spent Wednesday resting at Kent Academy and enjoying the village. I was asked today if we were ever in danger. On Monday we saw the expressions of hurt, fear, and anger on the faces of the people in Jos. As we left on Tuesday, we never saw any violence or even remnants of violence, since we took backroads out of Jos. I know that God had protected us, but there was always the thought that driving up on the wrong group of people could have turned the situation on its head. I am so thankful for the protection that God provides. God truly has been my fortress this week. The ride to Miango was quiet and somber. As we were coming into the village, the young people had a series of road blocks set up to ensure that no unwelcome guests traveled inside to cause trouble. After watching the boys expressions change to smiles and waves when they found out we were Christians seeking refuge, the uneasiness slipped away. We pulled into Kent Academy and had the opportunity to see a group of kids playing soccer. My body and spirit finally relaxed and relief flowed over me, I was safe.

During our stay at Kent, we were blessed to have Rev. Zane and his wife open their home to us and provide breakfast, lunch, and dinner. For the first time since Sunday night, I was able to enjoy the feeling of safety that I had felt when we first arrived in Nigeria.

Today we traveled back into Jos. I had a feeling of anxiety, wondering if we would come back into the same town that we left Tuesday morning. As we entered the city we found that people were bustling in the market, since they hadn't been able to buy or sell food since Tuesday. The faces were light, the feeling was easy, and I felt very comfortable as we entered town. There is a much higher military and police presence than there was when we left. If only that power had stepped in on Sunday, this situation would have never gotten this out of control. We still have curfew from 5pm-10am just to ensure continued peace in Jos.

Although I know there are still people in Jos who are without homes and are living with fear, hurt, and anxiety, I feel safe. We are in a safe area at the SSE house and things have been very quiet here since we arrived this afternoon. God is my refuge, I am a refugee in life and my only protection and safety is provided by God alone who has been moved by the prayers of everyone reading this and is connected to me and my family. Thank you for praying.