April 2020

As we approach the season of celebrating the death and glorious resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ our community is currently at a literal standstill. Gov. Holcomb has issued stay-at-home order in response to the corona virus pandemic. The order goes from March 25 through April 7.  This order has been extended to April 30. Church services have been canceled through the  end of the month as part of the state's prohibition on large groups.

We will be broadcasting live each Sunday on radio station WZBD and hope to live stream our services over the internet. We will communicate with you as we approach the observance of Holy Week. We solicit your patience and cooperation.

In thirty-eight years of parish ministry – never have I experience anything of this magnitude and scope. I am certain you have never seen the likes as these as well. We are entering into unchartered waters. We look to our Captain; our Savior Jesus to navigate and steer the ship of state the church and direct us.

Certainly your presence is missed at services. When we are able to resume gathering safely we will rejoice in the Lord’s mercy and the fact that each day we are Easter people. When we resume let us not forsake our gathering together.   

Right now, we are surrounded by anxious people. Many fear catching a virus which cannot be seen; from a total stranger, who innocently or  inadvertently violates your space.

Some fear shut downs. And job loss. And the failure of financial security.

Some fear losing those we love. They fear hunger and homelessness. Others fear what life will look like post-COVID 19.  Some fear feeling trapped in their own homes. Many simply fear the loss of control - this outbreak has caused in our own lives.

Early in His earthly ministry Jesus was invited to a wedding. Whose? We do not know. (I have an opinion as to the identity of this nameless couple but that’s for another time.)  No sooner had the festivities begun disaster stuck. Mary discovers there isn't any wine. “They have no more wine!” (John 2:4). It's this little detail; no wine, that brings about an emotional collapse. Consumed in the moment, and pre-occupied with what she wanted to be a nice day, Mary simply vents her frustration for all to see: "They have no wine."

Mary lamented: "They have no wine." You might lament: "I have no job. My kids are a mess. I have no purpose. I'm a failure. I have let everyone down. This fear consumes me.”

Your situation is not a surprise to Jesus. He is neither shocked. Astonished. Or annoyed. Your situation.  Which is taking all of your time and attention. - Take it to the Lord in prayer.  

Your anxiety.  Which is troubling you. – Take it to the Lord in prayer.

Your helplessness.  Indicates how much you need Him. Take it to the Lord in Prayer.

Mary presents a need. But does not dictate to the Lord how He should respond. In her request we have a model of intercession. That makes a need known to the Lord.  With humility. 

And a recognition that it is His will that should be done. She instructs the servants, “do whatever He tells you.”

If you have found God to be silent. If it feels as if God has left you, you're not looking at the right place. Look at the cross. And you'll see the Son of God who has taken your sins as His own.

The Redeemer who suffered your every sorrow of this life entered time and space to free you from it all. The Mediator has made peace between you and God by His precious blood so that heaven now belongs to you.

If you feel desperate and if you feel God is letting you sit in it, that's because you are and He is, but only because you're looking at what you lack. And if you're looking at nothing, no wonder you feel worse. Look instead to your Savior and His boundless love for you in giving His life for yours.

And keep looking, for in His resurrection, the Lord Jesus, who took your sins as His own, now declares His righteousness to be yours.

Keep looking, that's what Mary did, even after He rose from the grave and ascended to heaven above. After Jesus' ascension, the church continued to gather, and the Book of Acts specifically names Mary, His mother, among the number, who "continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship." [i]

We do not know where this pandemic will lead us. Yet one thing is certain. Christ will never abandon you. His promise is sure. “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”  - Hebrews 13:5 Money, will not save you. Positive thoughts and pious platitudes are simply inadequate. Like silly hash-tags, which fade over time. Trust not in rulers. They are but mortal. Place all your trust in Christ your Lord. He suffered for you on Calvary’s cross and rose victoriously on Easter to give you His life.

Christ is Risen! He is Risen indeed! In His hands you are safe. Fare thee well child of Christ. Fare thee well. Until we meet again.

  

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[i] Credit for some of this article’s content is taken from a sermon delivered by former fieldworker Pr. Tim Daub   “The Wedding at Cana Desperate for Jesus” 1.14.2018