We are certainly living in strange times. Who would have thought that the year 2020 would usher in such an unclear vision of the future? Many normal aspects of life have been changed or suspended. The reassurance that routine and pattern can supply has been damaged. Our recreational and social activities, hobbies, and pastimes have been disturbed. The form of assembling as the church has been unusual. Our normal isn’t so normal anymore. Who knows how long it will be before we can confidently say we are “back to normal?” I’m sure you have had similar thoughts. Sometimes things happen that gives us reason to contemplate life and appreciate its beauty and brevity. Other thoughts perhaps we share:
For some, the current situation isn’t much different than his or her normal. Some have been confined to their homes for years. Lonely, board, nothing to do other than just survive. Being confined with our normal being disrupted will help us symptomize with folks who have already been forced to live as such.
I have enjoyed extra time with family. It seems in the rush of life, we often neglect the precious moments. Moments that we will never get back. Rare moments that are presented as opportunities for making memories.
Although I know we are together spiritually and virtually, I have missed physically assembling with our Mars Hill family. I am excited and looking forward to the day when the building is once again filled with the church on the Lord’s day. Perhaps, this makes us long for heaven even more. Just think about how wonderful it’s going to be when heaven is finally filled with the church (Revelation 21:1-5).
Galatians 6:9-10 and Philippians 2:1-4 is emphasized, highlighted, carried out, practiced, and lived in times like these. Let’s keep it up. Keep it going. Don’t stop!
We are learning more and more about what passages like Proverbs 3:5-8 really means.
We are understanding more and more what passages like Romans 8:18, Hebrews 11:6, and Joshua 1:9 can do for our faith.
A thought from my father-in-law, Rodney Rice, “They tell us what we should do to avoid getting the virus, and for the most part, everyone does their best to follow those directions to a T. The Bible tells us what we should do to avoid going to hell and everyone questions it. Both are invisible to the eye, but both are real.”
Although our meeting together as the church has been hindered a bit, people of faith are saturating the internet and social media with the good news of Jesus. Social media almost collapsed due to the power of God’s Word being presented.
“Absence makes the heart grow fonder.” Sometimes we take for granted what an awesome privilege it is to be a part of God’s spiritual family. I appreciate you all more than I could ever express. I am praying for you all as I know you are praying for others.
Love you with the love of the Lord, ~Chris
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