March 18th 2020 - Responding to Crisis
Responding to the Corona Virus (COVID 19) has been an interesting journey! In some ways it seems like it has been uncharted territory however a recent post I read indicated that in 1918 there was an outbreak of the Spanish influenza that closed churches in Springfield Missouri which is the headquarters for the Assemblies of God. The post suggested that churches utilize the time that they would normally worship to pray for Missionaries and the military as well an increase in the “Latter Rain outpouring.” In the article it said, “Where assemblies are closed, let the saints devote the time they would spend at meeting to the Word and to prayer. He, whose ears are ever open to the prayers of the secret closet will, before long, bring the open reward.”
That is our plan through this “Pandemic,” we will doing some focused prayer! We will be opening the church to groups of 10 or less to come and pray as the Lord leads. I will be calling and setting up people for times to come and pray. Those who come for prayer are encouraged to be hyper vigilant concerning hygiene, (washing hands thoroughly and utilizing hand sanitizers). Even if you cannot come in be sure to set time aside to read God’s Word and pray. Pray for the Church in China, pray for the missionaries around the world that are impacted. Pray for our military members and their families. Pray for the families who have lost loved ones. Be sure to pray for our government leaders to handle this situation in the best way possible. Keep in mind it is the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions that are the most vulnerable. I could go on and on.
In addition to praying, for parents with kids at home we have access to some great kids bible based videos through Right Now Media. There are all kinds of great studies for just about anyone as well. I am hoping to utilize facebook and youtube to send an encouraging message this Sunday. You Version has some great studies to utilize as well.
Don’t forget that churches like ours depend on generous and faithful giving to support the ministry we do (even when the doors are closed). We do not have online giving at this point but you can always send your gifts and support by mail or swing by when you are able to get out and around.
My desire is that after this pandemic is past we will be more connected and unified than we were before it all happened. Situations and difficulties, though we may be anxious and uncomfortable, have a way of reminding us that we need to connect with God and each other!
God Bless, stay healthy, pray and spend some time in God’s Word and as the article said “Before long God will bring the open Reward!”
Pastor Brian