There is no doubt that we are living in unprecedented and unique times in our life. The COVID-19 outbreak has radically changed the way we live and do things in our society. Obviously, education and schools are not exempt to these changes. As we learn new mechanisms to cope with this new reality, Adventist schools are taking advantage of technology to stay connected with students and parents. Make no mistake, we are all going through a steep learning curve, but as we persevere and keep trying, we can also see that is possible, not easy, but doable.
We can't deny that fear and hopelessness attempt to creep in during these difficult times. These are also times to depend from God's promises more than ever. Human nature is really interesting when you analyze the way we behave toward God sometimes. For instance, look at the people of Israel in the Old Testament. When things were going well, times of prosperity and peace were seen in the land, unfortunately, the people of Israel turned away from the true God to worldly idols. Hard times will come to Israel and they would return to God and He would take them back, forgive their sins and heal their land (2Chronicles 7:14). That behavior, the wavering, was present in the people of Israel for centuries and God continued patiently sending messengers and prophets to admonish them back to a loving relationship. The important lesson from Israel's experience is that God doesn't change, his love and commitment to our well-being and eternal salvation is unwavering. Even though we face trials and tribulations God promised to be with us (Psalm 23, Matthew 25:19-21). We are living prophetic times, and Peter advices us not to be surprised at the painful trial we are suffering as though something strange or unexpected were happening to us (1Peter 4:12). Furthermore, James invites us to rejoice when we face trials of many kinds because by the testing of our faith it develops perseverance. And perseverance must finish its work so we may be mature and complete in Christ, no lacking anything (James1:3,4).
I have complete assurance that our life is in God's hands. He will see us through these difficult moments. God doesn't lie nor his promises go unfulfilled. We can rest assured that God's purpose for each one of us will be complete in His time.
Fernando Lista Oleynick
Superintendent of Education for the NUC
