COVID-19 and how God’s people should respond
COVID-19 and its effects are going to be around for many years. Worldwide 11.7 million people are confirmed as having the virus. 6.35 million have recovered, and there have been 540,000 deaths. The good news is that most people who contract the Coronavirus will recover without any specialised treatment needed. However, because it is transmitted through droplets when a person coughs or sneezes, or from contaminated surfaces, it spreads rapidly through a population.
NZ has no known cases of community transmission to date, but we must not get complacent. One million NZers living overseas are permitted to return to NZ, but this will probably take years due to quarantine, employment, housing and government financial issues. As we open our borders the risks of transmission increase.
So how should we be responding as the Body of Christ? Firstly, can I say that if you wish to wear a mask and gloves in church services, please feel free to do so. Self care and thoughtfulness towards others is hugely important. Please feel free to use the hand sanitisers located at the front door, on the stage near the pulpit, and in the music room for musicians. If you feel unwell with either a fever, cough, stomach issues, or muscle pains, please stay at home and consult your Dr.
I know many of us have relatives overseas that we are concerned about and are unable to be with, so please pray and support each other as best we can. Some of us are worried about job loss. Again, lets keep conversations alive so we know who we need to support.
Let’s talk Government! Ro 13:1-3 states that the church must submit to governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. It states that those who rebel bring judgment on themselves. So whoever is leading our country, whether you like them or not, pray for them as 1 Tim 2:1-4 says to do.
Lastly please pray and support the poor in our world who have no access to medical care.
Let’s continue on in hope and peace as we shine our lights brightly.
About Pastor Julie
I’m passionate about the church – building believers up in their faith, to be all God intended them to be; and I’m passionate about sharing the love and hope of Jesus with people who don’t know Him yet.