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Blog Archive
April 29, 2020
Terry's Thoughts May 2020
TERRY’S THOUGHTS
By the time you read this article we would have navigated four weeks of a “stay-at-home” order and if you are like me going crazy not being able to see as well as fellowship with family and friends directly. While adhering to the order has been hard, it seems we have lessened the spread of COVID-19 and the restrictions should be lifting soon as per the governor’s most recent Ex. Order. Even though he has extended the “stay-at-home” order through May 8, he did announce the process of reopening. I understand the process will be slow, however, there is indeed light at the end of the tunnel. Therefore, let us look at the bright side and focus on what God has shown and taught us during our time of quarantine. What has He shown us? He has shown us that ministry can be done, given the amazing technology we have these days, in a variety of ways and still have the desired effect. He has shown us that the basics of our faith and His precious Word are more important than our traditions. He has shown us that we need each other, we need to fellowship with each other, we need corporate Bible study, and we need to worship with each other regardless of what method we use. He has shown us that what many of us thought was important is not nearly as important as our own surrendering to His will completely rather than to our own wills.
Not only has He shown us what is important He has shown us what is missing in our lives. So, what am I missing? While I am grateful for technology and its power to connect us, via a computer screen, nothing takes the place of meeting with people directly. I miss meeting with and seeing the sweet pastors as well as the church members of the West Chowan Baptist Association. Additionally, I have deeply missed the opportunities afforded me to preach His word within our great congregations. Finally, besides missing everyone I am acquainted within our association, I really miss experiencing the everyday routine of serving the association from our office and on the roads throughout our association. In short, I miss YOU!!!
The most important and useful thing I have been able to experience, during this time, is the time I have spent with my Lord. There have been many days, during my quiet time, the Lord has revealed important messages for my consideration from His word. The fact of the matter is I have found it more important than ever to listen and obey when He speaks. Nothing is more important than our personal growth, our searching for opportunities to have gospel conversations, and the studying of His precious word every day! In addition to experiencing Him in new and fresh ways I have discovered, during our lock down, just how creative and passionate our pastors truly are. As they seek to stay connected with you and serve you, they have discovered new ways to accomplish their goals that I am sure will benefit us all both now and into the future. They have been heroes throughout this situation, and I have seen, once again, just how much they love their congregations!! It seems clear we can see the light at the end of the tunnel, therefore, let us remember the lessons we’ve learned during this time and begin looking at the many opportunities for sharing the gospel this situation has afforded us. I am convinced we are posed for such a powerful revival and frankly do not want to miss it. DO YOU?! I am also committed to never returning to my own complacency, as before, and never let up sharing my faith in the only one who can save JESUS CHRIST!
As I close this article let me remind each of you that our office remains closed until (hopefully very soon) these “stay-at-home” restrictions are lifted. Once we have been given the green light to reopen, we will do it in a phased approach in order to best protect our staff and the public. Please pray toward that end. I cannot wait until we can hug each other again and worship together side by side. Remember I love you and am praying for you. I consider it my greatest honor to serve the Lord and the greatest association in the state!
Terry