As we come – hopefully – to the end of a challenging time in world history, plans are being made for the re-opening of the church. Before now, some have challenged the authority of their respective governments and have attempted to continue traditional worship even in the face of threats to their health. Some have had to pay the price for their boldness.
For those who have listened to the voice of reason, it has been a time of exercising great patience and utilizing innovative means to continue religious practices with which they’ve become familiar. It is difficult to maintain a sense of community in times such as these, but it is a necessity, if past history is to be understood.
Until our present situation, there have been just two obvious groups in most communities – those who were regular attenders and those who had no interest. Of course, there were also those who, for various reasons, could not attend but would have if circumstances had been different. Now, it seems there are three distinct groups. They comprise of those who in obedience cannot go to church until the okay is given; those who for personal health considerations cannot attend until this pandemic is declared over; and those who wouldn’t consider church attendance as one of their options under any circumstances.
It is interesting, though, to hear of the positive changes that have taken place within and without the church (no pun intended). Personal devotional practices have increased. Prayer has become more common. People of different denominations are cooperating more. Witnessing about faith has become more common.
I hasten to advise that it would be wrong to assume God brought on this pandemic to teach us a lesson or to draw us closer to Him or each other. The disease was of our own making. The consequences are totally of our own making, as well, whether for good or ill.
If we can say anything good about what has happened in the past few months, it is that we have come together in faith and hopefully, re-enter into regular life with a new spiritual enthusiasm born of these times.
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