We live in exciting times. Never before has there been an expanse of knowledge, communication, technology and medicine. Think back just twenty years; life is different, and in many ways much better than in the past. Most of us carry a personal computer (now called cell phones); receive worldwide updates via satellites and the World Wide Web; and, live longer than ever before. Yet, the world can be brought to its knees by one little virus!
The purpose of this position paper is not to illicit fear. I am not a medical doctor or scientist; and I only have an educated guess about how far the coronavirus will reach into our local communities and lives. I am a pastor and my focus is on the spiritual well-being of people and the state of their eternal soul. With that in mind, I want to offer the following counsel for your consideration.
First, it is wise to be wise. Proverbs 22:3 states, “A prudent man foresees evil and hides himself,
but the simple pass on and are punished.” We all should be listening to the experts (not the news media) about the extent and seriousness of the coronavirus crisis. For some it may mean not traveling. For others it may mean washing their hands ten times a day. We should all be wise and provide levelheaded guidance for our families and loved ones.
Second, we should love and provide for our neighbor. Jesus said the second greatest command is this, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Wow! While many people are frantically planning and hoarding supplies for themselves, I believe we should all be stretched into thinking about our neighbor. If I have food, I should share it with those around me. This is what Christ would do. I should plan to provide help, counsel, and comfort to those around me that might need help in a real crisis. Jesus put it beautifully when he said, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” True Christianity loves people!
Third, this is a time to think about one’s own eternal soul. It is amazing to hear people say things like, “I might die!” or, “A pandemic could never come to the United States.” Respectfully, we all need to be reminded that none of us is guaranteed tomorrow. It’s times like these that remind us that our lives here on Earth are very short and that we must consider eternity. While there are many religious works, none can give the wisdom that the Bible gives concerning life, death and what happens when we die.
The good news of eternal life is found in the words of Jesus Christ, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” It is good to know God has an answer for our eternity; it is found in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Attached to this paper is a pamphlet that clearly outlines how you can move from fear to hope and from death to life.
Finally, use the following checklists to make your personal preparations should this virus turn into a real crisis in our community. Know that we at Crossway Baptist Church love you and want to be your neighbor as well. If you would like to meet with one of our pastors for prayer, spiritual guidance, or other types of help, please feel free to contact our office at 417-865-7311
In Christ,
Pastor Paul Sheaffer
Missions Pastor
Crossway Baptist Church
Preparation Checklist
“Be Wise”
Wash your hands frequently and use hand sanitizers when you cannot wash your hands.
Have several weeks of food and supplies for you and your family in your home.
Boost your immune system by eating healthy, getting plenty of rest and reducing stress.
Have a network of friends that can support you through these times. Church small groups are a great place to start.
Do not travel if the CDC puts out travel advisories for your age group and/or health status
Distance yourself from those that might be sick.
“Love Your Neighbor”
Connect with your neighbors. Let them know you want to be a good neighbor should our local community face a true crisis.
Offer to help them, if needed, to get supplies into their home. You may offer a ride or offer to pick up items they might need.
Check on their well-being. This may be a phone call, text or visit.
If needed, share your resources to help them in difficult times.
Pray for your neighbors.
Pray with your neighbors if they allow.
“My Spiritual Health”
Make sure you have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Do you remember a time when you personally gave your heart and life to Jesus Christ?
Read your Bible and pray daily. Now is a good time to realign your life with God’s will and direction for your life.
Be faithful to your church. If you are unable to attend, feel free to follow our services live at www.crosswaybc.org. We would love for you to join us.
Serve the community through your church.