The tendency of our time is to minimize religion. For many, a self designed “spirituality” has taken the place of religion. In this view, the concept of belief in God (or something out there) is divorced from any concept of religious duty or involvement.
I am convinced a reason for this is the self-sufficiency of our nation. The first world countries that enjoy a measure of material prosperity and reasonable health care are almost always secular and dismissive of any dependence upon deity. In fact, it is common to look down upon the religious as fanatical, superstitious and backwards.
But, the COVID-19 virus has turned everything on its head. People are being and will be impacted economically, and there is a real danger that the health system will be overrun and incapable of handling the pandemic. Panic is in the air.
I am so encouraged that in the face of this distress, the name of God is being invoked more readily. People are beginning to look for something beyond the physical to give them hope and comfort. As Christians we know it is to be found not only in our Lord, but also in the church He purchased with His blood.
God works through the church! In other words, faith in Jesus Christ comes with a recognition of His lordship. If Jesus is Lord of our lives, we are required to obey Him. He gives us duties. It is time for us to practice our religion!
“Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world” (James 1:27).
While we realize our obligation to live moral and righteous lives, I would like to emphasize the positive duty mentioned in the verse: “to visit orphans and widows in their trouble.” There is plenty of trouble to go around in our day. There is much to do, and we need to get busy. Here is my suggestion:
IDENTIFY! Who is vulnerable? Who needs help? How about the elderly and infirm in our congregation? How about those in your physical family who are in need? What about our neighbors? Do we have the means to contribute to some worthy cause?
INQUIRE! Ask people what they need. If we take the time to make a phone call and inquire, we have already encouraged them. Maybe a phone call is all we can do. But, we can at least do that. Communicate. If there is a grocery run, and you are healthy enough to make it for someone, do so. If the need is one you can’t meet, make one who can aware of that need, and see it through to ensure it is met.
INSIST! Most are hesitant to accept help, even when it is offered. They may at first demur. However, we can persist in our offer. Tell them we are going stir crazy, and need to do something. Inform them when we have to go out for necessities anyway. Plead with them to allow us to gather a few stars for our crown (cf. Philippians 4:17). Often it takes just a little encouragement to bring great relief to those who are hurting.
Finally, RINSE AND REPEAT. The practice of pure religion is not to make us feel good about ourselves. It is to help the helpless, to strengthen the weak. One act of charity is seldom enough. In a few days, call again. It may be that they will more readily receive our help. And sure, maybe we will get another star!
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