Called to Be…
(From the April - June 2020 issue of VOX)
A few weeks ago, none of us could have imagined celebrating Easter Sunday in Ireland without physically gathering together for worship! Rapid developments with the outbreak of coronavirus have transformed our reality. But Christians on this island don’t stop being the Church just because our church buildings are closed. The New Testament word ekklēsia, translated church, means the “called-out-ones” - we are those who have responded to Jesus’ call to follow Him, a people who have been “called according to His purpose”. Here we’ve brought together messages from key Christian leaders to encourage us, inspire us and point us to God at this time:
BE SAFE, POSITIVE AND PRAYERFUL
“There is a lot changing around us but our God doesn’t change.”
Rev Samuel McGuffin, President of the Methodist Church in Ireland, says, “In the face of uncertainty we wanted to remind you that we are still the church. How we connect, serve and worship might look different in the coming months but we are still the family of God. Stay connected to one another, be outward looking and stay close to God. There is a lot changing around us but our God doesn’t change. We trust Him, we seek His blessing and we seek to be a blessing. Let us be safe, be positive and be prayerful.”
Together with Rev Heather Morris, he added, “When Paul writes to Christians in Philippi he encourages them “Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ” (Philippians 1: 2). He goes on to point them to the nature, character and beauty of Jesus. Paul is making it clear that we will face challenging situations. In those contexts, when it is understandable to be afraid the invitation which comes to everyone is to make a conscious decision to trust God. At this time, a primary response is to pray for all affected by Coronavirus, and for the whole community.”
BE PEOPLE OF FAITH
“I believe that our churches can develop practices that will continue to bear fruit long after the coronavirus has become a distant memory.”
Nick Park (Executive Director, Evangelical Alliance of Ireland) said, “In these days, God wants us to walk as people of faith, avoiding the extremes of fear or foolishness. Christians believe in science, in obedience to the governing authorities, and in the power of God the Holy Spirit. These beliefs are not contradictory. Francis Bacon, a committed Christian believer, is remembered as the father of the modern scientific method. Sensible Christians will pay heed to the opinion of medical experts when it comes to understanding how coronavirus is transmitted, and what precautions will inhibit its spread.
“Romans 13:1-7 tells us to obey the lawful commands of governments and civil authority. Prior to the Government’s announcement, I had already received similar advice in the strongest terms from medical doctors in the frontline of the battle against this pandemic. Of course, we also believe in God’s Word, in the power of His Holy Spirit, and in the power of prayer. Therefore, while taking all medical precautions and observing government guidelines, we should be fervently praying for protection, for healing for those already infected and for the current crisis to be rapidly resolved. As people of faith, we should also be alive to the opportunities that the current crisis gives us. We should explore innovative ways to reach and care for people. I believe that our churches can develop practices that will continue to bear fruit long after the coronavirus has become a distant memory.”
See www.evangelical.ie or social media channels.
BE PEOPLE OF HOPE
The 2020 AGM of the Irish Council of Churches is one of many events postponed because of COVID-19. Outgoing President Rev Brian Anderson reflected, “A byproduct of this pandemic has been the growing sense of fear. The uncertainty magnifies mental health issues that are already present in society. Shared pastoral responses from churches are a powerful reminder that Christians are called to respond with love as the antidote to fear, as John reminds us ‘perfect love drives out fear’ (1 John 4). During this time of challenge, let us remain people of hope.”
Incoming President Very Rev Ivan Patterson added, “The COVID-19 virus had turned our world upside down. For Christians our hope must rest in God, our refuge and strength, a hope in our time of trouble. It is encouraging to see how many have responded with great community spirit and we pray that when this crisis is over our societies will be more caring, thoughtful and considerate.”
BE HUMBLE, OBEDIENT AND EXPECTANT
Louise Reid is an Irish church leader with a prophetic ministry together with others across the UK and Ireland. She says,“We are in extraordinary days, unprecedented times. Life feels somewhat surreal, as COVID-19 has emerged and spread across the face of the earth. Life is on hold. What is happening and what is God saying? Many believe this year will be a hinge or a pivot - when history changes direction. God is urging us not to fear, or be alarmed but rather to fix our eyes on Him. He is entirely good and trustworthy. He asks us to trust Him – completely.
“As goes the church, so goes the nation. God is working out His own good purposes. He doesn’t want anyone to perish. He calls us to humble ourselves, pray, seek His face, and turn from wicked ways (2 Chronicles 7:14). He promises that if we obey, His healing will come to the land. This severe interruption can be the means by which our island’s history and direction turns, to bring about “immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine.” (Ephesians 3:20).
“These days of COVID-19 require biblical responses. God reminds us that we are greatly loved. He remind us not to fear but to humble ourselves and pray, to seek His face and turn to Him. It’s then we will see the fullness of His life-changing purposes for Ireland - and the nations.”
BE A COMFORT TO ALL IN NEED
In a joint statement Archbishop Dr Michael Jackson and Archbishop-elect, John McDowell said, “The people of the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland are passing through a period of considerable distress. Above all, as people of faith, we should both pray and maintain a sense of proportion. There is every reason to believe that, by acting together in solidarity, this challenging period can be humanely and effectively negotiated. We are confident that God will be present through his Church and in the gentleness of the Spirit, to be a comfort to all who are in need.”
BE CREATIVE AND COMPASSIONATE
General Secretary of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland Rev Trevor Gribben said, “Without doubt we live in deeply uncertain times. While it is only natural that we feel a sense of unease and anxiety, we put our trust in God who can do immeasurably more than we can ask or imagine. We encourage congregations to find creative and virtual ways to worship. I know that where they can, our congregations will continue to support those in need, going that extra mile, quietly and compassionately in the name of Jesus, during this time of difficulty.”
BE REFRESHED AND STRENGTHENED
Sean Mullarkey, National Leader of Christian Churches of Ireland reminds us from Psalm 23 that God is with us. “In these days when we could be going around like headless chickens, we need to remember that we are sheep with a shepherd - the Good Shepherd. He cares for us and loves us. What an opportunity we have to be led by the Lord beside quiet waters, to allow Him to strengthen our souls and to be refreshed in the Lord. The Scripture never runs from the harsh realities of life but even in the midst of that He is with us. During this time, we might fight the enemies of fear, loneliness and depression but the Lord prepares a table for us in the presence of our enemies. Our Good Shepherd is with us through this dark valley. His goodness, mercy and love will follow us all the days of our lives.”
A PRAYER FOR PEACE OF MIND
You will keep them in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you.
Heavenly Father, in your love and wisdom you know the fears and anxieties of all your children. Your Son, Jesus Christ, said to His disciples: “Do not be afraid, It is I,” and to the tempest: “Peace be still”. We ask, not only for ourselves but for all others, especially our healthcare workers, that we may cast all our cares on you, for we know you care for us. Give us peace of mind and unshaken trust in you and guide us into perfect peace. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen
