“A man’s heart plans his way, but the LORD determines his steps.”
Proverbs 16:9
We can make all the plans we want. We can assemble teams, gather supplies, and book plane tickets—but the Lord determines our steps. And honestly, would we want it any other way?
Here’s how things stand in Cuba at the moment. We have had to postpone our February and March missions. When all of this first began, we decided the only reasons we would not go to Cuba would be if the Cuban government refused us entry, if the U.S. government prohibited travel, or if Yunior and Albert told us not to come.
In recent weeks, the Cuban government has begun turning people away at the airport, and Yunior and Albert have grown concerned that as conditions become more desperate, people may be more likely to act out of desperation. Because of these developments, we have put our mission plans on pause.
The guys are doing well overall, but it is becoming increasingly difficult to buy food and basic essentials. Fuel is nearly nonexistent except on the black market, where it is extremely expensive. So, for now, we wait and pray. We believe that if significant change comes to Cuba—something we are praying will ultimately be a regime change—it may happen quickly.
Please continue to pray for our brothers and sisters, and for the many others with whom we are building relationships who do not yet know Jesus. They are living with both the uncertainty of what lies ahead and the hope of freedom.
While things are in limbo in Cuba, there is still much work being done in Uganda, India, and Nepal. Martin has been in contact with Jeff about finalizing dates for a pastors’ conference in Uganda. However, because of everything happening in Cuba, our calendar has taken a hit. It is difficult to make firm plans. We want to remain ready to go to Cuba as soon as the doors open, but we also need to schedule the Uganda pastors’ conference and make time to return to India to continue helping Jiwan with his projects.
We also have some exciting prospects developing in South America. Nothing is set in stone yet, but Jeff, Yunior, and Albert are making exploratory plans to travel to Bolivia. They know a pastor there who is struggling and could use encouragement and support. Bolivia would also be an ideal location for summer missions, as that is their winter season. As always, we will trust the Lord to work out the details in His perfect timing.
Thank you for your continued support. We are deeply grateful that the Lord allows us to labor together in reaching the nations. The time is short, and people need Jesus.
Until all have heard,
Jeff and Trudy
