I’m reminded this morning after having “church” at home with my hubby, and with our church family on line, that more than ever, church is not a building that people gather together in, it is the people, the body of Christ, the believers and followers of Jesus who worship and serve God wherever they are.
This crisis we are in also reminds me of a quote that I read and reflect on when we’re shut in by storms. I think it's applicable to this time of self quarantine.
There is something joyful about storms to interrupt routine. Whether it be snow or freezing rain or a pandemic virus, it suddenly releases you from expectations, performance demands and the tyranny of appointments and schedules. One can almost hear a unified sigh rise from the near by city and surrounding countryside when unanticipated and uncertain circumstances have interrupted our life to give respite to the weary humans slogging it out within her purview. All those affected this way are united by a mutual excuse or cause, and the heart is suddenly and unexpectedly a little giddy. There will be no apologies needed for not showing up to some commitment or other. Everyone understands and shares in this singular justification, and the sudden alleviation of the pressure to produce makes the heart merry.
I realize though that this pandemic has put people out of work, put families with school children in difficult circumstances, and of course has put many peoples health and lives at risk, and we are praying for Gods protection and provision for them.
Even in this time of hardship and uncertainty, I'm reminded and reflecting on a few scriptures: Psalm 91 which I posted recently, and 2 Chronicles 7:14, and 2 Chronicles 20:9,12-13,15,17.
Here is the word of God. May it encourage you, refresh and revive you, and sustain you during this time.
If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land. ~2 Chronicles 7:14
‘If disaster comes upon us—sword, judgment, pestilence, or famine—we will stand before this temple and in Your presence (for Your name is in this temple), and cry out to You in our affliction, and You will hear and save.’ ~2 Chronicles 20:9
O our God, we have no power against this great multitude that is coming against us; nor do we know what to do, but our eyes are upon You. Now all the people, with their little ones, their wives, and their children, stood before the LORD. ~2 Chronicles 20:12-13
And he said, “Listen, all you inhabitants of earth! Thus says the LORD to you: ‘Do not be afraid nor dismayed because of this great multitude, for the battle is not yours, but God’s. ~2 Chronicles 20:15
You will not need to fight in this battle. Position yourselves, stand still and see the salvation of the LORD, who is with you.’ Do not fear or be dismayed; for the LORD is with you.” ~2 Chronicles 20:17
One more, most important and precious word to remember:
Jesus said: “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” ~John 16:33
So, with that said, I'm choosing to praise, rather than panic. Let us all turn our attention to God. He is in control, no matter how out of control things may seem. Let us remember that God is with us in all circumstances, and He has a purpose for this, and for us in it. Remember Jesus, and what He’s done for us. Turn your eyes to Him, stand firm in the faith and hope of His promises, and be ready and willing to help your neighbors, friends, family, and coworkers in whatever ways you can.
