One day, a priest and a pastor stood near a sharp curve on a very busy road holding signs. The signs read, “The end is near!” and “Turn back before it’s too late!”
As a man in a yellow sports car roared past, he yelled “Idiots”, made an obscene hand gesture, and stomped on the gas. Moments later, there was the sound of screeching tires and a big splash.
The priest turned to the pastor and said, “Maybe we should change our signs to ‘Bridge Out’.”
This story seems to fit the circumstances of this new day as we face change and uncertainty. Yesterday was a good example.
It was a surreal type of day. I truly didn’t have a clue as to how many people would come to the worship services but I was pleasantly surprised by all the smiling faces. I was also happily astonished by the large number of congregants that participated in worship through the LiveStream broadcast.
The congregation’s joy at hearing a world renowned opera singer and their laughter as the men’s chorus sang, “Oh Lord, It’s Hard to be Humble”, brought me back to the right frame of mind.
While there are still many concerns about the spread of COVID-19, the physical toll it will take on those we love, as well as the economic impact to our community, it is important to remember that Jesus is still Lord and that we will come out the other side of this pandemic.
Yes, for these next few months, we will be changing how our church operates in a world filled with uncertainty. Online worship and new innovative ways of doing ministry will continue to evolve as we meet the needs of our congregation and community.
The good news is we are up to the challenge because we know God is with us and has already won.
As Jesus prepared his disciples for a world of uncertainty, he said, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
Don’t give into worry and fear. Be vigilant, careful, listening for the guidance of the Holy Spirit. And most importantly, let God do the heavy lifting.
Prayer: Dear Gracious Heavenly God, when I am afraid of what awaits me in the future, remind me you are already there. I humbly ask that you use me to make this world a better place. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
Already this morning, I have received an email from Pam. She has volunteered to go grocery shopping for anyone who should not go out in public. This tells me is that our church is up to the task.
I pray your day is filled with joy and laughter.
Tom Robbins
Daily Devotionals by Dr. Tom Robbins 