Trusting In Jesus During And Beyond The Pandemic | Part 2 of Variants Series
Introduction
Church life and ministry have dramatically changed since the start of the pandemic. Consequently, we are faced with many challenges. Not everyone accepts online church services or ministry. Not even pastors. Many are missing the good old days. That’s why many still prefer face-to-face meetings even though there is a danger of further infections. What lessons have we learned so far that can help us persevere and thrive (not just survive)? Interestingly, it all goes back to who Jesus is.
Why trust in Jesus especially now
- Jesus is there *wherever* and *whenever* we gather in His name. (Matt 18:20) – “Jesus is in the midst of us wherever and whenever we gather in His name, just like He promised. We can worship and give thanks to the Lord, share our life testimonies with each other in His presence, and help each other through our various struggles by His grace. We can do this online or not. What is important is that we are trusting in His promise to be with us.” Ferdinand Punzalan
- Jesus places us in various *life situations* according to His *sovereign purpose*. (1 Cor 7:17) – “It does not matter whether the situation is ideal or not. Wherever the Lord Jesus places us in this world, He knows what He is doing. We can be thankful to Him for the opportunity to serve Him in whatever life situation we are in, whether it’s ideal or not, including this present situation. He may change our life situation, or He may let us stay where we are. What matters is that we must serve Him.” Charo Habagat
- Jesus holds *all things* together even if it seems *chaotic* to us. (Col 1:17) – “We may not understand everything that is going on. We may not have all the answers. But Jesus knows everything and He holds all things together according to His will and purpose. We may not be able to do what we used to do before, but Jesus is still in control. We can choose not to panic during this pandemic because He is still Lord of all.” Fely Pama
Conclusion
- “Regardless of the *situation*, Jesus is still our *foundation*.”
- It’s easy to lose hope or be discouraged in this situation. But we can trust in Jesus no matter what happens and still be His church and do ministry together during this pandemic and beyond.
- This week, as we face another lockdown, let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the Author, and Finisher of our faith.
Discussion
- How are people coping with the dramatic changes and challenges of church life and ministry these days?
- Why is it important to fix our eyes on Jesus rather than on what is happening around us or in us?
- How can we apply these lessons in our life and ministry this week and for as long there is a pandemic or even beyond?