From the federal level down, restrictions have been mandated in an effort to minimize illnesses and death by keeping people apart. My wife and I are hunkered down in our home. Our church family has been "quarantined" as well, in keeping with the governor's directive to limit gatherings to 25 people or less.
We are frustrated, cautious … but not anxious, as we realize our Father is still on His throne. He has not "departed," He has not been distracted. And He is definitely bigger than this virus!
It has been encouraging to see the response by Christian brothers and sisters to this very real challenge. Despite dramatic ramifications included closure of schools and many businesses, we hear our younger brothers and sisters tell us they are trusting in Jesus even as they wrestle with challenges and the tendency to "spin scenarios" of the bleak variety.
I heard a story of a brother who has become more bold than ever in witnessing to neighbors and co-workers ("I want you to know I am a Christian. My hope is in Jesus, and I would be happy to talk to you about Him any time.")
Another sister and brother have reached out to elderly friends (including us) by telephone, offering to help in any way they can, including curbside delivery of groceries.
After one week of reduced maximum attendance at a Sunday service, our fellowship opted to suspend gatherings. At the same time, the dedication of a couple of young brothers led to exploration of social media applications. Today our pastor's teachings are posted on YouTube, and other posts are going out to families with children (virtual Sunday School). In addition to Sunday and Wednesday teachings, the pastor's communications will include devotional "bites" two or more times a week.
Examples of the Christian response on the international level are countless, but all have the same foundation: Love for one another: love of, trust in … Jesus Christ, our Messiah, Lord of all!
On a back yard adventure the other day, my wife heard the distinctive sound of a hummingbird buzzing by. A minute or two later I spotted him in a tree, and then on the top of a tall shrub. There he waited calmly as I approached for a few photos, one of which appears here.
We continue to trust in the Lord, our Creator, giving thanks for each breath. We pray for His will in each day, even as we remain in the confines of our home. Given prophecy in the Word, we realize that this and many other circumstances in our world are simply hints of things to come. We do not despair, however, and pray that these circumstances might bring many more unbelievers to their knees in acknowledgment of the One True God.
Keep looking up, and remember Christ will come for His church before prophecy is fulfilled on this earth in the seven-year period known as "The Tribulation." Remember that His desire is that ALL should be saved, and pray that the number of those who surrender their lives to Him will grow by great numbers as unbelievers ponder their mortality.
"For God has not destined us for wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, Who died for us so that whether we are awake or asleep we might live with Him." 1 Thessalonians 5:9-10
"Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever." Psalm 23:6
"When I am afraid, I put my trust in You." Psalm 56:3
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