With much of the world’s population confined to their homes, we are getting a sense of the complications that come with isolation. Simple errands that a few weeks ago were a no-brainer now give us pause as to whether they are essential or even possible. Many are finding themselves without work. Grocery stores are struggling to keep their shelves stocked. The fear of overwhelming the medical infrastructure is a concern we all share.
Perhaps the situation we find ourselves in can help us better understand some of the challenges faced by communities on isolated islands of the Pacific. Limited food supply, few jobs, and often no medical services whatsoever. This isn’t a temporary inconvenience for our island neighbours. This is life as they know it.
On top of the isolation, many islanders are facing challenges from Cyclone Harold. This category five storm created devastating destruction in the Sanma Province of Vanuatu. Some had to seek shelter in caves. Phone communication and water supplies were disrupted. This nation of around 300,000 was already in a state of emergency because of the coronavirus.
In the neighbouring Solomon Islands, 27 people were killed. The cyclone brought flooding and ran boats aground. Emergency officials were already on high alert over the threat of coronavirus. Tonga is in recovery mode and Fiji is continuing to evaluate its losses.
Our hearts and prayers are with our Pacific island neighbours, as they endure these additional challenges, which only increases the consequences of their isolation. It is our great desire to see the YWAM KOHA bring practical help and hope to these families, communities and island nations. We realize it is not possible right now, but there will come a day when we will. We are doing all we can to prepare for the day we can sail to these isolated communities with a crew full of skill and compassion.
Financially this is a tough time for most of us, COVID-19 has dramatically disrupted the majority of the world’s economies. Please let us know how we can be praying for you and your family at this time?
We are also mindful of the financial hurdles that to be overcome to see the YWAM KOHA set up to serve our Pacific neighbours. Can we ask you to do one thing? Would you prayerfully join us in trusting God for supernatural provision to finance all the work that is still needed to be done?