First place: A new sister

Photo by Dave Barkman, Japan

COVID cancelled our Cherry Ladies English classes for a time, but when we were able to meet again, we opened the doors of our extra room and tried to spread out as much as possible. We had tried doing some Zoom classes and they were okay, but these ladies were thrilled when we were able to start meeting together again. The lady to the right of the TV “had time to think” during COVID, and decided she wanted to trust Jesus. She was baptized on July 5! — Written by Eileen Barkman, Dave’s wife

Second place: Moving forward, together

Photo by CG, Southeast Asia

With the struggle of food security and poor nutrition, our team brings nutritious food supplements, like vitamin- and mineral-enriched rice, to rural communities when we are able. During a time of food distribution to families, I noticed these three little friends, one with only one sandal, playing with a small car. Without front wheels, it took two boys to push their friend around the open court under the hot midday sun. After a circle around the court, the boys laughing with joy the entire time, they would rotate so another could ride. As I took the picture, I realized this moment reflected this community where everyone depends on their neighbor for everything to survive.

Third place: The magical flight

Photo by KZ, Eurasia Expansion

While visiting our son (a missionary pilot serving in the Arctic, where many unreached communities are accessible only by flight), we were treated to an amazing flight across Northern Alaska. This photo was taken over the Yukon River with amazing light and the mist of rain in the distance. Scenes like this remind us that having God's perspective (way higher than ours) always brings us to his sovereign hand in life, even in the midst of turmoil, loss, and grief. Sometimes it takes being 4,000 feet in the air to regain that perspective, but we can always regain it through the Word of God!