And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.
Romans 8:28
So this morning I am sitting here a bit fried. I have spent most of the week trying to make sure the church keeps people safe during an viral outbreak while keeping them from panicking.
Beyond shaking hands and hugging, what practices during worship need to change to limit exposure? What is our plan if the government shuts down large gatherings? What weekly activities other than worship should we cancel? The questions seem endless.
So I turn to Paul’s calling out that “all things” work together for good according to God’s purpose. Really Paul?!
But then I settle down. Even the nerve wracking details of this current crisis have purpose. And maybe God is reminding us of what is important.
Example: Communion is a sacrament that we all share and cherish, yet there is always this debate about passing trays and plates, or coming forward and dipping bread in the cup (intinction). Both are exposure points. Yesterday I ordered individually sealed communion bread and juice containers (SangriaBoy calls them “Snackraments”). This creates a new way to partake the body and blood of Christ (the truest purpose) without the logistical discussions.
Example: Encouraging people who have compromised health conditions or are elderly to stay away from community gatherings actually challenges us to think about and be community (God’s beautiful purpose) in a more creative way.
I’m still pondering God’s purpose of hoarding toilet paper; I’ll get back to you!
Lastly, I can’t take full credit for this whole thing. Part is God‘s inspiration, and part is my daughters inspiration. When “Baby” found out that she was going to have to come home from medical school until further notice, she found the silver lining (God’s purpose) that she will be home for all of holy week; a luxury that would not normally be afforded to her.
So my friends, try to find God‘s purpose in the details of this viral outbreak crisis. But also look for it in the every day circumstances of your normal non-crisis life.
I leave you with a purposefully deeper salutation:
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