140 Days and Counting
Sunday will make 140 days since any group has gathered inside the church I pastor. For our growing church body it has clearly been the safest decision. I believe I speak for most pastors when I say every week has been unprecedented. Churches in the south rarely ever close their doors for any reason. This pandemic has forced the church and everyone else totally out of our comfort zones.
Now, I’ve had many stressful days just like many of you. You seek to adjust your approach to life every way possible. You try to use technology and other means for communication. You seek to focus on what you can do instead of what you can’t do. Eventually you realize that you’re just on a roller coaster ride along with everyone else. All you can keep doing is seeking to take the next right step.
Even still, I must say I’ve seen much more good than bad in this season. Some souls have come to know Jesus Christ through this uncertain season. Many souls have experienced a spiritual awakening. Many believers have returned to earnest prayer and the total pursuit of God’s will. America as a whole can final see their need to apply our motto “In God We Trust.”
Now, don’t get me wrong I’ve seen the devastation and pain of many. Many folks have had to be alienated from their sick loved ones. Many have had to bury loved ones without the full presence of family and friend. Countless jobs have been lost and businesses shut down. The mental health of practically everybody has been challenged to say the least.
Honestly, I’m afraid all of this was necessary to get our full attention. In fact, if this season hasn’t awakened you in some way. I’m not sure what it will take for you to wake up. I certainly see my desperate need for the grace of God in my life. I know I can’t even walk without Him holding my hand.
“For the light makes everything visible. This is why it is said, “Awake, O sleeper, rise up from the dead, and Christ will give you light.” So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. Don’t act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do. Don’t be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, and making music to the Lord in your hearts. And give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Ephesians 5:14-20
Pastor Craig Crosby 