All anyone can do is focus on what is left. This is an opportunity to make do with what you have, be thankful for your family, your community and your home.
It may be a little too early to look ahead to the church of the 22nd century, but we are seeing the transition to an electronically connected community where online videos, streaming services and virtual groups are offered. The online community will not replace our physical churches where people go to find such a feeling of connection with other people. Something which the lockdown has created such a hunger for. which cannot be achieved from an online meeting. On the other hand, there may be a whole new way to incorporate what we have learned from online church, in our new future. Some people might really welcome the opportunity of using their ever-so-familiar TV medium to soak up the word of God.
The lockdown has taught some deep lessons. Once we can safely return to Church, our hearts will have opened to what is valuable and worthwhile. This, of course, is the love of families, relationships, a relationship with God, through Jesus Christ.
Who else promises to provide shelter in the storm, to protect you with angels so that will not even dash your foot against a stone? Who else can lead you through deep water and be with you all the way?
God says he will save us from the deadly pestilence; that we do not need to fear the terror of the night; nor the plague that destroys by day. He promises that the deadly pestilence will not come near our tent, (our homes). (Psalm 91). We can only access these truths, and implement them in our lives, by believing them. Where do we learn to believe in them? In the churches.
As the storm will pass, the church will be ready with open arms to embrace and be at the forefront of an exciting new future.
