Dear Friends,
Easter is the time when our thoughts go to the most important elements of our Christian Belief. It takes in the nature of the incarnation, so prominent at Christmas, but also the doctrines of salvation, exhibited in the death and resurrection of Jesus.
Nothing, not even this present distress, should get in the way of our marveling at the sheer greatness of his love, seen at the cross, and his power, seen in the resurrection.
Given that, we still can’t divorce ourselves from what the world is going through. We cannot dismiss the possibility that somewhere in all this, we might be caught up in the spread of this deadly virus. I urge everyone to be diligent in the reading of God’s word, especially the gospels, so that our memory of his power, love and grace will be ever fresh in our hearts and minds.
People may ask us how what is happening fits into our Christian world-view. They may be watching us carefully to see if our confidence during the ‘good times’ stands up in the bad. This very situation may open opportunities for us to share what we know about God’s power and love, as seen in Jesus.
On that matter, I received a press release during the week quoted in the diocesan news service.
It said, quoting an opinion poll in the US, that ‘44% of Americans polled said that they see the ‘global coronavirus and economic meltdown as a wake-up call to turn back to faith in God and signs of the coming judgement.’ It also said that ‘22% non-Christians polled said that the crisis is causing them to start reading and listening to Bible teaching and to Christian sermons online …’
I don’t know how accurate that survey is, but it is not inconsistent with reactions during time of war or other disasters. Certainly, from personal experience it is often seen in individual situations of personal stress.
What this tells us is that human nature, despite its tendency to move away from God, still has an awareness of him and a longing to find him. How strong that desire is, and how long it lasts is another matter.
If any of us find ourselves in a position of speaking to someone like that, it opens up the opportunity to share a word of testimony or guidance to help them in their journey. To quote I Peter 3:15, ‘…always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you, yet do it with gentleness and respect …’
Don’t forget, while we are being prevented from seeing each other in person, don’t forget to use your phone or the internet to keep in touch with one another. I have been receiving such calls, and have making some as well. In the Christian family, fellowship is like air we breathe, without we don’t last long.
Your friend,
Bruce Ballantine-Jones
Acting Rector