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Blog Archive
March 24, 2020
Terry's Thoughts April 2020
Normally, at this time of year, I would be commenting on the activities surrounding Easter. I will comment on those activities in just a few lines, however, I wanted to take a moment to chat with you concerning our current reality as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Obviously, our hope is that very soon those working on solutions to our current situation will have answers on how we can deal with this scourge of COVID-19 and we will be on the road to recovery in every way. Until that time, I wanted to remind you that our strength, to weather this storm, does not – as strong as they might be – come from Washington nor Raleigh. Our strength comes from the Lord.
In a recent quiet time, the Lord genuinely spoke to my heart concerning the things transpiring with this pandemic and the fear it is spreading. What the Lord assured me of was that He is still in control and none of what is going on has taken Him by surprise. He began speaking through the hymn “How Great Thou Art.” The words of that great hymn once again came alive in my heart. After listening to the song being sung, I was led to a couple of encouraging Psalms (91 and 107) that restored my faith in Him. I challenge you to study those passages. In verse one of that great hymn we are reminded that as we consider all “His hands have made” and when we “see the worlds and stars” He made, our souls cannot help but sing “How Great Thou Art!” I know this article doesn’t do justice to what I was experiencing, however, if you had been there you would have been shouting with me!! Verse three was especially powerful that morning. The words of that verse go to the very heart of what we are about: “THE GOSPEL!” The verse is as follows: “And when I think that God, his Son not sparing, Sent Him to die, I scarce can take it in; That on the cross, my burden gladly bearing, He bled and died to take away my sin.” Of course, then the verse is followed by the chorus: “Then sings my soul, my Savior God, to Thee; How great Thou art, how great Thou art! Then sings my soul, my Savior God, to Thee; How Great Thou art, how great Thou art!” God reminded me that during this pandemic there are people with no hope who probably would listen to the message of the Gospel. If we would be faithful to share the gospel, they too could shout for Joy at what the Savior has done for them!! Oh, let us not miss this chance, especially on the heels of the most important date we celebrate all year: the RESURRECTION OF JESUS!!
Concerning the activities surrounding our Easter Celebrations I would encourage and challenge you to find special ways to celebrate His resurrection. We do not know, currently, of any Easter Cancellations, however, as we hear of those, we will of course publish that news. If we are still under gathering restrictions during the Easter season, do consider different ways to celebrate. Ways such as live streaming or any other method that technology affords. There will be outside celebrations such as Sun Rise services followed by possible outside resurrection services celebrating what He has done. I still believe we have been given a great opportunity to see a great revival occur because of what we have experienced and may continue to experience during this pandemic. Could this be the moment of the next GREAT AWAKENING? Could this be the time He decides to take His church to its eternal home? Are there people you know and love who are without a personal relationship with Jesus, therefore without any eternal hope? All good questions and the answers are in His hand, and ours is to remain faithful until He does act. Not only do we need to be ready for whatever is coming, but we must do all we can to see that as many as possible are ready as well!!
Finally, please continue to check our website westchowan.org for the latest news, announcements, and opportunities during the restrictions as well as beyond. We here at the association will remain open to serve your need and as always we stand ready to assist.
Terry