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Who could have ever predicted a virus would literally affect the whole world so quickly and deadly as this Coronavirus has done.  Most people, especially in the United States, feel in control of their lives, making decisions as if they are invincible, protected, and have most of the answers to basically everything.   This pandemic has forced countries, people, churches, and events to change completely and perhaps forever.

Again, who could have predicted the church would ever close their doors?  Due to state and federal guidelines, churches and other public gatherings of 10 or more people were forced to close.  People, especially the older population, has retreated to their homes, limiting their exposure to other people, practicing to wash their hands and objects several times a day, wearing masks and other protective gear, and perhaps ordered groceries and other items online more than ever.  It seems as if every country and person has been rocked to their knees.

Who would have thought our pastors would be challenged to learn new techniques of connecting with their church members through social media and other strategies.  It seems as if no one has been spared from altering their “normal” routine.  While we miss gathering in the church, it was prudent for all of us to practice social distancing to slow down the rapid growth of this ugly pandemic. 

Other areas of concern is having sufficient health care equipment, a stressed economy, high unemployment, small and large businesses closing, schools and sporting events are taking a leave of absence, and many of students are missing out on "once in a lifetime" experience on their senior years at high school or college.  It is also frustrating not having a vaccine capable of eliminating this virus and has led people to fear and question whether our lifestyle will return soon back to normal.

It is easy for anyone to feel overwhelmed, pessimistic, and critical about how this has personally affected us.  Christians for the first time did not have the opportunity to worship Easter together.  Countries are trying to find an answer to solve numerous questions of safety and prevention.  Most are starting to blame each other for everything that has gone wrong.  In a world of chaos, there is one gratifying consistent element that brings us all peace, joy, and security.  His name is Jesus!  He is the one in control even though this world seems to be falling apart.  As Christians, we have learned to trust Him for our safety, provision, health, and salvation. 

A few people are trying to link this as a sign of the last days found in Revelation.  Some are stating this will lead to a one world government and usher in the anti-christ, others state this is one of the plagues listed in Revelation.  None of us are fully sure of how and why this is happening but all believe that He is our provider.  We know that God will see us through this together and can stand on the scripture that “we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose” Romans 8:28.  Even thought this world seems to be out of control, we believe God has a plan for the church.  Most of us believe that the church will experience even a greater outreach to those in our communities than ever before.  This and should be the church’s greatest hour.  As a Christian, there is no room to fear or be discouraged.  Our efforts should be focused on staying safe, trusting Jesus, and be asking for how can the church be instrumental in our present day and hour.  People are looking for answers and hope.  There is only one hope that is eternal.  That is through Jesus Christ!

Be safe, study and pray more, and be a vessel of honor for the master’s use in a time when the world is searching.

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