Church Community in Times of Crisis and How We (I) Respond

I have to admit, when I was told that my church was temporarily suspending corporate services and events in light of the global response to COVID-19, I was upset. Enough so that I sent a message to our church pastoral staff stating my displeasure. Yes, I disagreed with the decision to close our church to public worship, but I was also disappointed and felt that we would be shutting out those who may come searching for answers.

I honestly believe that we, as Christians and the Church, have a responsibility to make known Christ in the world, and to be an example of his love, showing those who are in need the life that comes from knowing the Savior. Part of this responsibility is being available to those in fear during the times we now find ourselves in. To close our doors to any who search for Truth is not how we accomplish this. We have nothing to offer behind closed doors.

So, this morning we held our service in a Facebook Live (watch it here: https://www.facebook.com/crossroadsarlingtontx/videos/608842869845760/) with worship and everything. Only, we had no congregation in the house. I found that the words seemed directed at me specifically (interesting how He does that at times.) I listened; I prayed; I learned.  

Imagine my surprise to find that my views may change as quickly as it was formed. Any who know me, know that I have opinions, and those are not easily (if ever) changed. While I never intended to intimate that those who are swept up in the hysteria and panic of this growing pandemic of COVID-19 are wrong, I equated it to our annual fight with the flu every season, but with no real empathy toward those who are fearful. While I am convinced that there is much over-hyping the issue, it has become an issue that requires serious response and likely significant sacrifice to get through it going forward. How can something that creates real panic be taken lightly, and who am I to discount another's feelings and fears simply because I may not have the same?

God has put leaders in place at this time to execute his plan. While the Lord most likely did not start this virus outbreak, He has allowed it. He allows trials and times like this so that we may see his glory and come to know him to be a good Father.

We depend on our government to protect us and make things right.

Romans 13:1 tells us, “Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God.” - Romans 13:1

The fact is, new rules and common sense regarding how we assemble and to what degree we interact with one another make some sense where the spread of this virus is concerned. As one who has never wanted to give government the upper hand in dictating our movements, or restrict our rights, I still believe we are and will remain free as we take steps to curb this ongoing viral threat. We can choose to follow the suggestions of health professionals, especially those working in the trenches with no agenda other than to be of aid and comfort to the sick and affected.

So, let us be realistic and not confuse faith with conflict of common sense. My faith tells me that God can and will make all things good for those called to his purpose:  

“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”  Romans 8:28

Yes, I believe that God will use this to further the Kingdom and bring many into his family. I believe that the good news of Jesus Christ will be spoken to many, and many will find salvation and eternal life. God will use those of us who are willing . . . in person, online, on the phone, wherever.

We may all have differing opinions of how to control the current panic and fear, and we can even discourse over how best to represent the Gospel to those in need. What we cannot do is belittle one another, by not showing the love that Jesus commanded:

'"So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.” - Matthew 7:12

Agree, disagree, we love. When we love, we represent Christ. When we represent Christ, we see lives changed. That, my friends, is what I believe we must be. Do I like the fact that my church building is effectively closed to groups gathering to worship? No! Do I agree, though, it is our responsibility as church members and leaders to make sure that we are good citizens and members of our local communities? Yes, I do. Is this a balancing act that we can achieve with the help of the Holy Spirit? Of course it is.

If we build our lives on a solid foundation, as Christ taught us, we stand on solid ground, able to withstand even the strongest storms; tempest tossed to and fro, but safe in the arms of God:

"Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock. And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell, and great was the fall of it." Matthew 7:24-27

So pray . . . pray for healing over our communities, nation and world. Pray that our government is wise and seeks the will of God as decisions are made. Pray, too, and especially, for our church leaders to discern God’s prompting and the Spirit’s leading as they shepherd the people of their church, through the criticism of those like me who come at them with blinders and closed minds, not fully realizing the situation and facts in hand. Pray for protection from the enemy’s schemes to use this to block those seeking and deflect those who believe the Word of God. And pray that those in need, suffering from fear and angst, may be comforted and come to know the love of our wonderful Savior and Lord, Christ Jesus.

May the peace of our Lord, Jesus Christ, be upon you!

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