It has been difficult keeping up with the ever changing situation affecting the world with the widespread impact of the Corona virus. The Federal Government has announced from 23rd March 2020, that there can no longer be Church gatherings! This is unheard of in our lifetime and will mean that we need to work differently in the coming months to reach the lost and care for the people of God. Under the ‘Social distancing’ rules people need to have 4 square metres each which makes home fellowships difficult too. Our elders and people with chronic health problems are most at risk so we need to be extra careful.
This is a time for prayer. Our nation and our people needs God’s protection and mercy. We are promised in 2 Chronicles 7: 14 if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land. While our doors may be closed the Lord’s ear is open to our prayers and His hand is not so short that it cannot save.
Although our upcoming events and church services are postponed or cancelled and we may not be gathering together in the same room we can still stay in fellowship through phone calls, posting letters, facebook, streaming services and other means. This is a time to be creative, stay connected and encourage people to look out for one another even more as we see THE DAY of the Lord drawing near.
For now we can take courage from the words of Jesus – Matthew 6:31 “Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. 33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.
Please take the precautions needed to make it through this time in the safest way possible. Keep up with the hand washing, social distancing, self isolating if needed, hygeine standards etc. while still being compassionate and sharing the Love of Christ in a hurting world. From all of us at the AEF, we are praying for you and encourage you to join us in prayer for our people and our country.
Tony Riches