Dear Friends in Christ,
"Let us praise the Lord the God of Israel. He has come to the help of his people and has them free." Luke 1: 68
"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men." Luke 2:14
"Did you notice that our street is the only one without any damaged houses?" my neighbor commented to me yesterday and then she added, "Thank God!" I also give thanks to God.
The Almighty God has kept many people safe from harm in this storm, including my daughters and their apartL ments in the city. Some friends in Brooklyn told me that the storm did not touch them, but many had extensive property damages, even lost their houses along Zone A, an area of mandatory evacuation.
The super storm Sandy left destruction in New Jersey and New York along waterfronts. Long Island, where I live, belongs to a hard hit area. My home is further north and inland. I had prepared ahead of time for the worst with extra water, candles, fire and food, as I anticipated loss of power for an extended time.
All day Monday October 29 I sat in the house petrified. The light went out and the wind was very strong. I subL mitted my whole being to God's care. In Psalm 17: 8 the psalmist writes, "Keep me as the apple of your eye: Hide me under the shadow of your wings." The small radio was the only link to the outside world. However, short emerL gency news could not transL mit a whole picture of what was happening. Eventually the cell phone lost all connecL tion! Thus began a weekLlong hideout for me, alone with God. There is no way to count all the blessings. What an unmerited grace and lesson from God!
The road to recovery goes slowly here. This is the 16th day since the storm, but the southern part of Baldwin is still without power. Gasoline rationing has now ended. I am again able to go to Brooklyn to see my friends.
I have many invitations to visit Russian speaking churches and home groups. I am thankful to be free to go anywhere as the Lord gives me his leading and strength. This is a privilege and a joyous responsibility for the Gospel. I have prayed with some people on the phone so far. Thank you for keeping me in your prayers.
May you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving and the best ever time at Christmas with your loved ones. Thank you for keeping in touch with me throughout this most difficult year. You have blessed me and my family. Your love is much appreciated.
In Christ,
Anna Deikun
PO Box 1099 • Baldwin, NY 11510 • (516) 771-0839 • adeikun@juno.com
