As fear and anxiety about the Coronavirus is paralyzing our family and friends, we are wondering how soon this will end. While our nation prepares for the worst, our prayers are with those who are suffering as a result of the Coronavirus...those who are sick, those who have lost family members, and those who have been placed in financial difficulties due to this virus. Let us (FBC Wallingford) join together in prayer that God will give the medical community a vaccine and effective treatments that will protect and save lives.
In the last couple of days, many cities and venues are beginning to limit large gatherings—I want to assure you that I and the Ministry Leadership Team is staying abreast of the news headlines concerning the uncertainty and spread of the Coronavirus. At this time, we (FBC Wallingford) will continue to worship on Sunday mornings with precautions: *No handshakes... *No hugs... *Additional sanitizing cleaning procedures have been put in place by Tom Oppelt...and the *Receiving of Tithes & Offerings will change (there will be no passing of offertory plates—plates will be set in place in the rear of the sanctuary for your convenience).
Yes, FBC Wallingford is taking the Coronavirus seriously, but as Christians we cannot let fear take control and set in. Franklin Graham once said, “If we dwell on perceived threat, panic will take over. If we dwell on Christ, peace will prevail.”
The same is true today...while media reports and social media and a plunging stock market may throw people into panic mode, centering your life on Christ and keeping the focus on Him can calm those fears. While there are still unknowns concerning this virus—Christ is constant, unchanging and all powerful...not just today but for eternity.
Generations throughout mankind’s history were no strangers to trials, and many were well acquainted with the character of God: a loving, protecting Father quick to console His people. The Lord comforted generations then and he comforts us now.
Take a few moments to meditate on these passages of Scripture and allow the Word of God to sustain you in the days ahead...
“Peace I leave you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”—John 14:27
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus”—Phil. 4:6-7
“It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.”—Deut. 31:8
“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”—John 16:33
“For God gave us not a spirit of fear but of power and love and self-control.”—2 Tim. 1:7
Billy Graham once said, “My hope does not rest in the affairs of this world; it rests in Christ who is coming again.” As followers of Jesus Christ, we know there’s hope beyond this life—a glorious hope, something greater than we can ever imagine.
With all the dominating headlines of the Coronavirus—don’t miss all the good things happening around us. Every day there are wonderful opportunities to see God at work in the world and to express our thankfulness for His protection and provision.
See You Sunday...
In Christ,
Pastor Steve