Wow, friends. What a time to be alive, huh? I have been reminded this week just how small and how in need of a Savior we are. This pandemic does not come as a surprise to God. I find comfort in knowing that even while we are confused, upset, and concerned why this is happening, God is sovereign and in control.
In this time of chaos and confusion, do not forget your neighbor. Galatians 6:10 tells us to do good to everyone, especially those that are believers.
So, how can we practically love our neighbors while social distancing?
Pray.
- Pray for doctors, nurses and healthcare workers. Pray that they will have endurance and wisdom. Pray that scientists and doctors will be able to work together to find a cure.
- Pray for President Trump, your senators, congress and other world leaders to have wisdom to govern their people well.
- Pray for missionaries who are away from home. Pray that they will be steadfast. Pray that they will be reminded of the goodness of the Lord and have gospel centered opportunities in the midst of this pandemic. Pray for their health.
- Pray that God will be glorified and that the Gospel will spread as a result of COVID-19.
Practice Hospitality.
- Remember the missionaries your church supports. Write them a note (via USPS or email) letting them know that you are thinking of them and ask them how they are doing. Mail is gold when you are in isolation.
- Remember the widow/er and the singles. Write them a note, send a text, call or face-time them. Remember, mail is gold!
- Consider “hosting” your Bible Study or community group online! Zoom, Google Hangouts, or a group FaceTime (depending on the size of your group) are great resources for this!
- If you have the time/money/resources, offering to grocery shop for the elderly, homebound, immunocompromized is a really sweet thing to do and such a sweet way to bless your neighbors!
“Gather” with your Church
Friend, if your church has a live broadcast, tune in and worship with your brothers and sisters in Christ! It will probably feel weird, we aren’t meant to do life alone, we are made to live in community and corporately gather each week with the body of Christ.
Christian can grieve this heavy time, but not without certain hope (Heb 6:19, 1 Tim 4:10). Those who know the Lord, may this be a time that propels us to look toward Christ’s return and the future glory that is coming soon. One where we will be seated with Christ, in heavenly realms, without pandemics, suffering, catastrophes, tears, sorrow, or pain.