26 Mar One Year On: blessings amid the challenges of the pandemic

At important times, Joseph of the Old Testament was able to recognize what others couldn’t. Not only did God give him the ability to foresee a famine (Genesis 41), He allowed him to perceive his family when they could not recognize him (42:8). Because Joseph chose to keep his perspective on what God had revealed, when his family and the neighboring nations were clamoring, Joseph navigated his circumstances with excellence.

When we recognize God’s hand amidst difficulties, we see what few others can. One year after COVID-19 was declared a pandemic, we’ve looked back on the last twelve months, taking note and taking stock. As we have done so, we’ve been able to perceive some of the work God is doing in this unique time.

Blessings International, like many non-profits, has had to navigate the intense challenges of the pandemic. But we seek to acknowledge and celebrate the blessings that come from the process, especially those things we wouldn’t have experienced otherwise.

Providing for the Unreachable

We are thankful that in 2020, people in ninety-four countries received medicines, despite closed borders and increased local demand. (People like Matthieu in Togo, who needed simple antibiotics to save both his legs. Read his story here.) Getting medicine to the most vulnerable internationally was possible through direct exports, which we began to offer freely with orders over $1,500. This has helped our partnering organizations financially during a time of great uncertainty.

Reaching the Providers

Another blessing we acknowledge is the privilege of serving Americans on our home soil more than ever before. From hospitals in New York City to pregnancy centers in Texas, Blessings’ products continue to protect front line workers and serve patients at their hour of greatest need. At a time when many Americans are without medical insurance, we’ve been able to come alongside safety-net clinics to help people like Sue (read her story here) and thousands of others like her who are unable to afford healthcare.

Even something that has brought such pain and loss can be used for good. As Joseph said to his brothers in Genesis 50:20, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives,” we choose the same perspective toward COVID-19, and we thank God for the good that has been done in the midst of hardships.

If you have a testimony of how something good has happened despite the pandemic—or even because of the pandemic—please share for the encouragement of others by commenting below.