As I am writing this post our local church and churches all over this country and in many countries of the world have closed their doors, doing their part to slow the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic sweeping through the earth.
Although this step was necessary still some worry for the future of the church. With our sanctuaries shuttered, our pews empty and our doors shut, how can we make a difference in our communities?
What we forget is the church was never meant to be a building. It was always meant to be a people, a community of believers. It was never meant to be an institution, a sanctuary from the world, a place to hide from the chaos around us. No, the church was always meant to be a movement, a living, growing, always changing, force for good in the world.
In other words, God never intended for us to just “go” to church. No, He wants us to “be” the church, to be the hands of Christ reaching out to a world in pain. Paul says we “are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” (1 Peter 2:9 NIV)
The sanctuary doors may be closed right now, but the church remains open, because we are the church. We still have a work to do. Remember, the Great Commission never was to “stay”, to “stay-at-home” in our beautiful churches. The Great Commission has always been to “go”, “go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” (Matthew 28:19, 20)
For far too long we have chosen to “shelter-in-place”, withdrawing from the world, into the safety of our churches. It is time for us to step out in faith and “be” the church, making a difference in this world so in need of a word of hope and the touch of loving hands.
When we do this we need not fear “the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday…For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.” (Psalm 91:6, 11).
While following recommended practices, such as social distancing, wearing masks, and washing our hands, we can still care for our neighbors and friends, reach out to those in need, and offer hope and encouragement to the lonely and afraid. We can still “be” the church, even in the midst of this pandemic. Our doors may be closed, but our hearts must always be open to a world in need.
This week let’s “be” the church, going wherever the Holy Spirit leads, knowing He will be with [us] always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20)
God bless and have a Happy Sabbath!