"And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: 'How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news (Romans 10:15, NIV)!"
Covid-19, or more commonly known as the "Corona Virus," has caused panic and chaos worldwide. To be honest, some of it is justified. We are struggling to stop the spread of this virus and have no idea what the next few weeks hold. Grocery stores are selling out of essentials such as toilet paper, soap, hand sanitizer, baby wipes, and food. Schools and Churches are closing,
sporting events and international competitions are canceling, jobs are requiring individuals to stay home (with and without pay), and fear is controlling the lives of many.
I want to encourage you to stay calm (helpful, I know right) during this time period, but also take precautions. Follow what the CDC and local health officials are encouraging you to do (wash hands, avoid large crowds, stay home when sick, etc...), but I also want to encourage the church with a few things to consider during this time.
We have an opportunity to be the hands and feet of Jesus during a time that is filled with chaos, discouragement, fear, and financial instability.
1) If you are financially able, post on social media that you are willing to help anyone who is need of meals for their kids while schools are closed, or having trouble paying rent because work is requiring them to stay home. You also may be willing/able to babysit for families whose children are home from school.
2) If someone needs a ride to the doctors or refuses to go to the doctors because they can't afford the trip, offer to pay for their appointment.
3) If you have extra toilet paper, hand sanitizer, soap, canned food, water bottles, etc... and know someone who has none, share with your neighbor (see Luke 3:11).
4) If you or your church is live-streaming your Sunday morning service, make an announcement that you are able and willing to help other churches figure out how to set up a live stream for their services as well. Not everyone has the knowledge to be able to set up a Livestream. With a short conversation, we can help the entire Church thrive during this time.
5) Be willing to help your neighbor, even if it requires you to step out of your comfort zone. We are not called to live in fear during this time. Don't dwell in the unknown (see 2 Timothy 1:7).
We have the opportunity to be the hands and feet of Jesus during this time. We have the opportunity to come together as the Church and help our neighbors who are in need. Continue following updates and complying with the CDC, but don't allow the updates to strike fear in your hearts. God is in control. Covid-19 is going to spread, but we have the opportunity to slow it down so that health officials and hospitals are not overwhelmed.
You may think you are too "small" to make a difference. But I assure you, any small thing you do for one another is a big thing for the Kingdom of God (see Matthew 25:40).
I will be praying for you. Please reach out to me if you need assistance financially or with food during this time!
Yorumlar