How tragic it would be to find ourselves on the other side of this pandemic, right back where we started: too busy for family time, too busy for family worship, too busy for family meals, and unable to enjoy the blessings of simplicity and solitude!
Read MoreWith the COVID-19 stay-at-home restrictions, however, many American families are enjoying more meals together than ever before. For many, the evening commute is no longer a factor, evening activities are cancelled, and restaurants are closed. When we share a meal, we are called to receive it with thanksgiving. So as family meals increase, so should family prayers of thanksgiving.
Read MoreNone of us know how much longer these stay-at-home restrictions will be in place. But while they’re here, let’s take just a few minutes to sit down together and make the two lists that could help shape and bless the rest of our year.
Read MoreCan you picture brothers and sisters in Christ who have missed one another dearly, coming back from quarantine and social distancing with a renewed appreciation for church gatherings? Can you picture them shaking hands? Hugging one another? Laughing together and opening the Word of God together? Singing out praise songs right next to each other?
Read MoreIn 1527, Martin Luther ministered during an outbreak of the bubonic plague in Germany.
In 1665, Puritan preachers ministered during the Great Plague of London.
In 1854, Charles Spurgeon ministered during a cholera outbreak in London.
In 1918, American pastors ministered during the Spanish Flu epidemic.
And in 2020, the global church faces the Coronavirus pandemic.
As we walk through these uncertain times, we do so prayerfully. And what should we be praying for right now? Perhaps one of the Puritan preachers of the 17th century might lend us some insight for our prayers.
Read MoreIn the face of the Coronavirus pandemic and in order to quiet our hearts in the goodness of the Lord, I encourage you to skip the “Happy Birthday” and “Jailhouse Rock,” and instead, quote Psalm 23 each time you wash your hands.
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