Newsletter 14 March 2020, Episode 37

I guess I should write something about the virus. It’s on everyone’s mind.

I was sent this link to some wise words. You might like to check it out. 

However, I’m not quite sure what to say except to urge us to pray for people making the big decisions (1 Timothy  2:1-4).  I want to be faithful about the challenges ahead, but not trite. Here goes…..

Essentially we are called to:

  1. Prayer in place of anxiety (James 5:13-15; Philippians 4:6).
  2. Empathy and compassion for those suffering (Matthew 9:36; Mark 5:34).
  3. Action to comfort where we can (2 Corinthians 1:4; Matthew 14:14).
  4. Making the most of every opportunity – sharing about the comfort Jesus can bring for those who don’t yet know him (Acts 16:22-36).

 What we don’t know about the virus is not as important as what we do know about Jesus.

We know that the ultimate victory is his:

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33 NIV11)

We also know that nothing in this world can separate us from the love of Christ:

“Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?” (Romans 8:35 NIV11)

It is sobering to see what is going on around the world as a reaction to the virus. Not only the deaths, illnesses and physical pain, but also the emotional anxiety and even panic. Let’s do our best to be people who are alert to the realities of the consequences of the virus, and connected with people in their pain. Yet, also, to be those people who have a genuine hope and do not live in fear.

 God bless, and stay safe, Malcolm

Prayer requests

  1. For those in decision-making positions regarding society’s response to the virus: “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Saviour, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.” (1 Timothy 2:1–4 NIV11)
  2. For the upcoming “Wait for the LORD” retreat at the end of March. Please pray for wisdom as to whether it should go ahead, and, if it does so, that God will move in us and amongst us to his satisfaction and our joy.

Thank you for reading this far, and encouraging me in my endeavours to support our times of quiet with God, our corporate worship experiences, and the effectiveness of our preaching and teaching. I hope my uploads will help you to live a life of peace as you rest in the trust you have in our heavenly Father, no matter what the circumstances.

If you know anyone who might enjoy these materials, please send them a link to my website and encourage them to sign up for this newsletter.

God bless, Malcolm