This post is being written during a worldwide event, which has caused panic and fear in many around the globe. In the United States it has caused almost all public meetings to cease and for people to stay at home as much as possible to avoid the spread of the virus. The coronavirus (COVID-19) has made history in several ways. The one I want to discuss here is the closure of almost every church in the United States. During every major event in United States history you can find the churches filled to the doorframe of people seeking help, guidance, and hope. The governor of Virginia announced recently based on the virus, that anyone meeting in a church with ten or more people, would be charged criminally.
This has caused a new adaptation for the church, driven by the technology we now have, church services are live streamed or recorded on the internet. Just when we thought the day of TV preachers was fading away, now we have internet preachers. This has caused a social issue for many who enjoy the social interactions of church. “Facebook” church groups are a good choice for some, but not for all. The technology we possess today allows us a replacement for church services, and is a blessing, but not an adequate replacement in my opinion.
For someone wanting to seek help and hope in this time of people losing jobs, financial concerns, fear of the virus, and depression, where do they turn? A recorded church service on “Youtube”? I am thankful for the telephone, it does still exist, and is still the best replacement for face to face interaction. If you are more technology driven, live chat is the next best thing.
As we, the church, face this new challenge may we continue to remember the foundation of the gospel message and the help, guidance and hope that it brings to our lives and others. “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to His abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” 1 Peter 1:3.
I would ask that you think and pray about the below verse. It was a response by God to Solomon, a conditional promise to Solomon and his people. God is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. Think about this conditional promise as we move forward for God in these new times and trials.
2 Chronicles 7:13-14 (KJV)
13 If I shut up heaven that there be no rain, or if I command the locusts to devour the land, or if I send pestilence among my people;
14 If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.
The Sword of the Spirit 