We have seen amazing changes in parts of the Arab world recently and more challenges are in the news daily. While much grief and horror has been brought into the region, we are reminded that God is still very much in control behind the nightly news scenes.

Christian expatriates are reporting increased openness by the local people from many of the affected and nearby countries. While intense fighting was still taking place, there was a sense of impending freedom from dictatorial leaders. One worker describes how even taxi drivers were openly asking them about God while adding that a new time is arriving where it is permissible to speak about Jesus.

There are credible reports of new house churches being started with minimal to no direct participation by expatriate Christians. Indeed local authorities have been suggesting that foreigners distance themselves from these new churches for the safety of everyone involved.

Local people are optimistic of a new and better future, where they have a say during this ongoing process. The son of a terrorist group leader, who is now a follower of Jesus has said that even those countries that may initially embrace a more strict form of their majority religion, have now been empowered to make change, and thus will not tolerate any form of government that is not representative of the people they claim to represent.

We remain overwhelmed by these rapid changes in this region and rejoice in the news of God’s kingdom being built on many fronts. Opportunities for expatriate Christians and businesspeople still continues to grow.