Hope Over Fear Be a good citizen. All governments are under God. Insofar as there is peace and order, it’s God’s order. So live responsibly as a citizen. Romans 13:1 (The Message) Don’t stop meeting together with other believers, which some people have gotten into the habit of doing. Instead, encourage each other, especially as you see the day drawing near. Hebrews 10:25 (CEB) === There has been nothing in my lifetime that compares to the situation that we are now facing. On one hand, there is a viral disease that has spread around the world, called fear, which has spread even more rapidly than COVID-19. I was in the store the other day and I could see the fear and panic in people’s eyes as they had shopping carts loaded with water and toilet paper. My initial amusement turned to compassion as I realized that their fear arose because they had no confidence in God. As believers, this crisis presents an opportunity for us to be light and salt in the world. We have the answers that the world needs to hear. We must be ready to share the reason for our hope. With the restrictions that are now in place regarding the number of people who can gather at one time, churches are facing a dilemma. On one hand, we are commanded to “Be a good citizen” and on the other, “Don’t stop meeting together with other believers.” From my observations, most churches are complying with the orders and directives and there only a few who view this as an attack on religious liberty. While the long-term effects of these restrictions are yet to be seen, thanks to modern technology we have the capability of staying connected in ways that were not even possible 10 to 15 years ago. While videoconferencing is not a substitute for gathering as the body of Christ, it is a viable option during this time. Pastors and leaders use the tools that you have available to minister and stay in touch with your people. It is important to keep on encouraging, teaching and leading during this unusual time. When this time of crisis is over, plan a big celebration, but for now, work with extra diligence to guard and protect the people for whom you have responsibility. And let us remember this: ”The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” Deuteronomy 31:8 (NIV) Steve Ekeroth