26Mar
Since we cannot gather in person, the Pastoral Staff and Elders have divided up the congregation, and we are calling everybody to make sure they are all OK. I’m delighted that so far, all are doing well! In the process of calling, I have had two encouraging surprises over and over.
The first surprise, and perhaps I should not be surprised, is how many are already checking on each other. Repeatedly, I hear the stories of friends, family, and neighbors calling and offering to help with whatever might be needed. My next surprise is how many have offered to help whoever has a need. They will offer to buy groceries or take someone to the doctor.
Their generosity reminds me of a passage in 2 Corinthians 9, where the Apostle Paul is praising the Corinthians for their care for one another. He starts the chapter by telling them that there is no need for him to challenge them to care for one another because he knows their “eagerness to help.” He then remarks that their “enthusiasm has stirred [many others] into actions.” (:2 NIV) Sharing Christ’s love in simple and practical ways is more contagious than COVID 19.
Under stresses and limitations, where is a person to find the personal resources to do what they should do to encourage others? In the same chapter of 2 Corinthians, Paul promises resources for the Corinthians, who he is calling sowers: “Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness.” (:10 NIV) As we invest in people, God will resupply us so that we can continue. Our efforts may be limited due to the contagion, but little things add up!
I can’t think of anything more Christlike than caring for one another in times of need. This pandemic will last longer than we want, but it will come to an end. If we continue to care for one another, to call, to text, even write an occasional card, we will find that we have built a monolith of love. We will stand together throughout this crisis, even if we must stand six feet apart!
Login To Leave Comment