Christian Magazine calls for Family Worship
Many churches are pushing pause on gathering their congregants for weekly worship services during this season of coronavirus risk, including children’s ministry classes and groups. While many of us might be tempted to enjoy a break from church, that’s the last thing we really need. At times like this, we desperately need God’s Word to reassure us that He is in control; we need to sing songs that remind us of His power; we need worship.
The Bible teaches us to “watch out for one another to provoke love and good works, not neglecting to gather together (emphasis mine), as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging each other, and all the more as you see the day approaching.” (Hebrews 10:24-25, CSB) We know, as Christ followers, that we are called to gather together as the Church—the bride of Christ Himself. However, as we retreat to the safety of our houses under city ordinances and precaution, we should look around and recognize that the very people we live with in our homes are part of that same calling—our family. We should continue (or start) to gather together to worship as a family.
Whether you are a parent, a grandparent, aunt or uncle, or friendly neighbor, you can still gather together for a worship experience. This may sound intimidating to you, like something you are not equipped for, but it doesn’t have to be difficult. In fact now is the perfect time to start doing a family worship time, and to keep doing long after coronavirus leaves us.
If you read the portion of Deuteronomy 6 sometimes referred to as the Shema, it’s easy to see that family discipleship is a scriptural command: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. These words that I am giving you today are to be in your heart. Repeat them to your children. Talk about them when you sit in your house and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up (emphasis mine).” (Deuteronomy 6:5-7, CSB) So, let’s face it. Many of us will be “sitting in our houses”—with our kids or other family members—for longer periods of time than we are currently used to, as some schools may close and workplaces may go to a temporary remote work model. Chances are, your family might be experiencing some anxiety in this unprecedented situation. Use this extra time wisely and talk about God’s Word—the ultimate soother of our souls and healer of our hearts!
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An important aspect to ponder is the psychology of those who feel it necessary to continue to hold church services against medical advice, as well as the motives of the religious leaders who continue to offer church services during the COVID-19 pandemic. The following article indicates that fear is a key motivator for both kinds of individuals:
If this is true, which seems plausible, then the fears of the attendees are being exploited by religious leaders.
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The ancient words of the the imprisoned Apostle to the Philippian Jailer ring down through the centuries. Spoken with a loud voice, I might add: "Do yourself NO harm!" Acts 16:28.
Whether physical, spiritual, or eternal harm, God represents the exact opposite: Life, healing, and health. Satan, on the other hand, came to destroy, maim, and kill.
What a shame when so called church leaders do Satan's bidding and make other Christians look dumb. And that the State has to step in with common sense.
This same strain of ignorance led some to walk around in their church meetings holding poisonous snakes in order to prove God would take care of them. Many however were bitten, became sick, and died.
Good to hear from you Lonnie on this otherwise difficult day. And thank you for sharing the timely link.