Source: INcontext International, December 2021
Amid the relentless waves of COVID-19 infections and deaths, ongoing conflicts, political instability (coups, protests, and upsets), and an increase in disasters, one could easily sink into despair—were it not for the Lord’s sovereign hand and merciful intervention in our world. In this special edition of A World in Motion, we look at five significant, ongoing stories to watch in 2022. There are already some clear indications of possible impacts to the Church and missions in these regions or situations, while others remain speculative.
- China-Taiwan flashpoint, one of several
- Russian-Ukraine tensions and potential ramifications
- Conflict in Ethiopia and its regional impact
- Iran nuclear ambitions and their wider geopolitical implications
- 2022 could be a decisive year in the COVID-19 battle
In Habakkuk 1:5, the Lord says to the prophet:
“Look at the nations and watch—and be utterly amazed. For I am going to do something in your days that you would not believe, even if you were told.”
As followers of Christ, let that be the spirit in which we embrace the coming year—a spirit of anticipation and readiness for what he will do in and through his Church, in our world.
Read the full story or a previous, related story, Five Major Headlines of 2021 and What They Mean for the Church. Both are long and may be easier to read and share in PDF form, which is provided.
See also Three Trends Shaping the Post-Pandemic Church (Ed Stetzer, for Outreach Magazine).