The Swine-Flu in Monterrey...

You have seen it in the news...and seen it, and seen it! So, what is it like here...on the "front lines," so to speak?? Tough...but not nearly as bad as it could have been!
We were very happy to see the Mexican government become so pro-active as soon as it was clear that there was a very present danger in all of this. One of the first things the government did was encourage people to avoid social gatherings. And they followed that almost immediately with the closing of all schools, theatres, sports events and even religious gatherings. Restaurants in many areas were limited to "carry-out" only. From Monday, April 27 through Wed., May 6, our city was kind of like a ghost-town.
People really did all they could to avoid being outside among others in a effort to stop the spread of the influenza. We did our part to comply with the government wishes, staying in-doors most of the time, watching movies on DVD and reading books. We communicated with our friends here through phone calls and e-mail, taking every opportunity to encourage them.
Many people here live in fear...and this influenza certainly touched that part of their lives. Some folks were terrified...and all the hype about "the Spanish Influenza" of 1918 didn't help! So, we understood that part of our ministry was to quell fears, offer hope...to be a "calm in the storm."
Thankfully, the government's measures seem to have had a positive effect. With everyone home watching television and listening to radio, the government was able to bombard the population with flu prevention measures they could take, and basic anti-flu hygiene (wash hands, wash hands, wash hands!) While there are new flu cases appearing, things are not nearly as bad as they could have been.
All in all, while it certainly has not been easy time, the Lord has shown himself to be faithful through the calming presence of his Spirit. Please continue to pray for Mexico as the people wrestle with long-held fears and superstitions. And, pray that we can be the "calm in the storm" that they need.