Good morning:
We continue to pray for those infected with the coronavirus worldwide and ask that the Lord would soon provide relief according to His good will and the means He might choose. Of course, it becomes much more personal when it involves people who are close to us. This past week our fellow believer Arlene Bernthal was diagnosed with COVID-19 and passed away Thursday morning. Our comfort and confidence is that the Lord who rose from the dead on Easter promises, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die” (Jn. 11:25-26).
What makes the virus even more frightening is the prospect of facing it alone. In order not to infect others, sick individuals have been isolated in a bedroom or basement or hospitalized in isolation with no visitors allowed. The separation from loved ones makes the suffering all the greater.
Jesus’ disciples could relate. They felt completely alone and helpless Easter night. Even though they had heard reports of His resurrection, it seemed too far-fetched to believe. They felt cut off and isolated, overwhelmed by fear and uncertainty. Yet the truth was that they were not alone. Jesus was alive and that night He appeared to them to reassure them of His peace and presence. Scripture tells us they were overjoyed at seeing Him. In future years they would face untold dangers and even loss of life for Jesus’ sake. They pressed on with joy knowing Jesus was with them every step of the way.
The same Lord assures you, “Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matt. 28:20). “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you” (Heb. 13:5). We don’t have to face our sins and their guilt by ourselves. Jesus took them upon Himself and carried them to the cross. We don’t have to find our own answers to problems or count on our own strength to overcome the troubles of this life. The Lord encourages us to cast all our anxiety on Him. No matter what today brings, you can be sure that you will not face it alone. The living Lord is as close as His Word and His ears are open to every prayer of His people.
Yours in Christ,
Pastor
Our Sunday service will stream live at 8 a.m. tomorrow on YouTube, and afterwards be uploaded to Ustream.
