Some thoughts about our response to COVID-19
March 17th, 2020
Obviously all of us are in the midst of some unprecedented circumstances. Whether or not any of our members have been exposed to COVID-19, each of our churches is facing questions about whether to meet, how to respond, etc. While I do not presume to have any amazing or new wisdom to share, it seems appropriate at this time to address our people. I ask that our FEBC leaders and congregation members consider the following thoughts.
1 – God’s people are not to live in fear (Luke 12, 2 Timothy 1:7, 1 John 4:18).
While we make responsible decisions and take appropriate precautions, we should not allow fear to control or define us. Our boldness in the face of uncertain times is part of what communicates to the unbelievers around us that life in Christ is different. Our perspective should be eternal.
2 – God’s people are called to love others (John 13:34, Romans 12:10, 1 Peter 4:8).
While we are not to live in fear, we should be mindful that others can be impacted by our decisions. If our freedom from fear causes us to ignore precautions that could have protected someone else, we are not loving well. Galatians 5:13 specifically addresses the abuse of freedom.
3 – God’s people are called to submit to authority (Romans 13, Titus 3:1).
If the authorities asked us to do something decidedly wrong we would resist. However, when they ask us to help our community and protect the health of our weakest members by not meeting, this seems like a legitimate use of their authority. We should give ample consideration to that request.
Salt and Light
God calls us in Matthew 5 to be “salt and light.” I believe this is a salt and light moment for us. We can make the best use of this moment in many ways. For example:
Generosity
Finally, I want to encourage our people to give generously throughout this crisis. Give to your neighbors who are in need, give hope to those who so desperately need it. Consider donating blood or some other service which might be overlooked during this time of “self-quarantine.”
As our churches cancel services and activities, it is normal for regular church giving to drop off. When there is no opportunity to place money in an offering plate, we overlook the need to give. Whether your church has one pastor or a large staff, each of our churches will continue to have bills to pay during this time. If your income is intact throughout this situation, I ask that you continue to give faithfully to your local church. You can mail a check or utilize online banking to donate at any time. Let’s be faithful to supporting God’s work throughout this crisis.
If your income has been disrupted by this crisis or you have other needs that are unmet, contact your local church and make them aware of your situation. Our church leaders want to meet the needs of their flock when possible, but cannot do so if they don’t know your needs.
Let’s pray for one another, encourage one another, and bless one another as we are able. Let’s be salt and light to the world and tell others about an amazing Savior who gives us a sense of peace regardless of our earthly circumstance.
May we all be able to say with Paul:
…I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
- Philippians 4:11-13 (ESV)
May God strengthen, bless and encourage you.
Serving Him together,
Kevin Stone
President
Obviously all of us are in the midst of some unprecedented circumstances. Whether or not any of our members have been exposed to COVID-19, each of our churches is facing questions about whether to meet, how to respond, etc. While I do not presume to have any amazing or new wisdom to share, it seems appropriate at this time to address our people. I ask that our FEBC leaders and congregation members consider the following thoughts.
1 – God’s people are not to live in fear (Luke 12, 2 Timothy 1:7, 1 John 4:18).
While we make responsible decisions and take appropriate precautions, we should not allow fear to control or define us. Our boldness in the face of uncertain times is part of what communicates to the unbelievers around us that life in Christ is different. Our perspective should be eternal.
2 – God’s people are called to love others (John 13:34, Romans 12:10, 1 Peter 4:8).
While we are not to live in fear, we should be mindful that others can be impacted by our decisions. If our freedom from fear causes us to ignore precautions that could have protected someone else, we are not loving well. Galatians 5:13 specifically addresses the abuse of freedom.
3 – God’s people are called to submit to authority (Romans 13, Titus 3:1).
If the authorities asked us to do something decidedly wrong we would resist. However, when they ask us to help our community and protect the health of our weakest members by not meeting, this seems like a legitimate use of their authority. We should give ample consideration to that request.
Salt and Light
God calls us in Matthew 5 to be “salt and light.” I believe this is a salt and light moment for us. We can make the best use of this moment in many ways. For example:
- Do your neighbors, coworkers and family members see you reacting to current events with confidence in God rather than fear?
- Do they see you responding to current inconvenience or hardship with an attitude of love and humility?
- Are you actively loving others who may have greater need during this crisis?
- Can you use the current situation as a way to begin conversations about life, death and eternity? Watch for opportunities to share the Gospel.
Generosity
Finally, I want to encourage our people to give generously throughout this crisis. Give to your neighbors who are in need, give hope to those who so desperately need it. Consider donating blood or some other service which might be overlooked during this time of “self-quarantine.”
As our churches cancel services and activities, it is normal for regular church giving to drop off. When there is no opportunity to place money in an offering plate, we overlook the need to give. Whether your church has one pastor or a large staff, each of our churches will continue to have bills to pay during this time. If your income is intact throughout this situation, I ask that you continue to give faithfully to your local church. You can mail a check or utilize online banking to donate at any time. Let’s be faithful to supporting God’s work throughout this crisis.
If your income has been disrupted by this crisis or you have other needs that are unmet, contact your local church and make them aware of your situation. Our church leaders want to meet the needs of their flock when possible, but cannot do so if they don’t know your needs.
Let’s pray for one another, encourage one another, and bless one another as we are able. Let’s be salt and light to the world and tell others about an amazing Savior who gives us a sense of peace regardless of our earthly circumstance.
May we all be able to say with Paul:
…I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
- Philippians 4:11-13 (ESV)
May God strengthen, bless and encourage you.
Serving Him together,
Kevin Stone
President
