Today is Sunday

And we are not in church. In fact most of the people I know are not. I don’t think any of us could foresee this. It’s beyond what we could have imagined happening…at least in our lifetime. I think my grandmother could have…but not me.

I wasn’t going to write about this.

I really wasn’t. I don’t like perpetuating the fear I see the media instilling in people right now. I do believe we should be cautious. I think the government shutting things down is smart for prevention. But the reactions I see from the media and people everywhere are over the top.

So I was going to refrain from participating in the dialogue.

But then Saturday happened.

Friday night I got a text from a friend of mine. We have done ministry together for a handful of years. He said the church is closed and someone he works with wanted to be baptized. He knows our community has a hot tub. So, we set it up.

Saturday at noon a group of people arrived at our clubhouse. We filed into the hot tub room and witnessed a young man commit to live his life for Jesus. We celebrated and gave praise to our incredible Savior. And then went on about our day.

But I couldn’t shake the thoughts. So I had to write them down. My heart was grateful. I still don’t know why God allows me to be a part of things like this. But man, I am so glad He does. I am so very grateful.

Yup, it’s Sunday, and we don’t have church.

But this is an incredible opportunity for THE CHURCH to rise up and really be who God has called us to be. Right in the middle of our everyday lives. A group of people ended up around a hot tub because my friend was Jesus to his coworker.

And today, tomorrow, next week, we will be in the stores and in meetings, or maybe just on the phone, with people who are anxious and afraid. Because let’s face it, the world is dark and scary right now. But that’s when we shine.

The light becomes brighter in the darkness.

So, let’s step up and BE the church. Let’s step up and BE Jesus to the world around us. We were made for such a time as this. God has been preparing us our whole lives for this moment right here. Don’t miss it. Don’t let fear steal it from you.

For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?”

Esther 4:14 NIV