Dear brothers and sisters greetings in the name of Jesus. We pray that all our members, family, visitors and friends are safe and well at this time.
As you are aware church activities are suspended until further notice.
Around the world, church communities are adapting to different ways of worshipping and engaging as we press through this coronavirus outbreak. We declare Psalm 23: “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil” and Psalm 91: “He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most high shall abide under the shadow of the almighty.” In this season we must choose to be intentional, to dwell (occupy/live) in the secret place.
At present, the world is living in fear. As Christians however, the bible tells us that, “God has not given us a spirit of fear but of power, love and a sound mind” – 2 Tim 1:7. This doesn’t mean we take unnecessary risks but we exercise wisdom and sound judgment pertaining to our health.
We believe God is making himself known in this crisis. 2 Chron 7:13-14 says, “If I shut up heaven that there be no rain, or if I command the locusts to devour the land, or if I send pestilence among my people; If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” It is also a time of realignment with the father.
As it was in Egypt, so it is now, God is calling his people to anoint the doorpost of their homes and cover their families – Ex 12:23. In this critical moment, God is shining his spotlight on his church whom he had given power to rise up – Acts 1:8-9. This is a call for all Christians to intercede on behalf of the nations.
We are also being reminded of who God is in a delicate world; his characteristics are being made evident. He is El Shaddai (God Almighty), Jehovah Rapha (Healer), Nissi (Banner), Jireh (Provider), Shalom Peace), Tsidkenu (Righteousness).
Let us, therefore, begin to change the narrative in this season, from one of hopelessness to one of hope, from helplessness to helper, from fear to faith; from defeat to victory. Today let us join all our brothers and sisters across the world in a time of prayer; repenting on behalf of and contending for the nations.
Today is also a time for family. While the wider church family is physically apart but connected in spirit, take this time to sit together with your loved ones, read the word, worship, pray, encourage and share what God is saying.
Next week we are putting arrangements in place to record or stream services. We are also exploring ways to deliver Sunday School and other activities online.
Finally, “The Lord bless thee, and keep thee: The Lord make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The Lord lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.” – Numbers 6:24-26 KJV