Back in the early spring, there was so much uncertainty about the future. I truly thought that the COVID virus would impact our lives for only a short period of time. When we as a congregation began to talk about how to handle the circumstances, that was the question I was asking myself. How long? Three months? Six months? Never did I think we would be looking at over a year of limited social interaction, and compromises to ensure safe assembly. Some other congregations in other states and other places have yet to return to any semblance of a normal worship schedule.
Christians in general and our congregation in particular have been impacted severely by the pandemic. While we have been livestreaming our worship and classes, those who are not able to come have been unable to get the great benefit of being with their brethren in the assembly. Virtual worship is not the same thing as the assembling of ourselves together, and I know that all faithful brethren long for the time when these self imposed restrictions can be set aside, and we can all safely come together again.
Not everyone is watching the feeds. I appreciate very much those who are certain to listen and watch when they are stuck at home, but some of our number are not taking advantage of the accommodations we have made. Not everyone is responding to efforts to reach out. Texts, phone calls and FB messages have gone unanswered or without response. This is discouraging and worrisome.
So many I have talked to feel isolated. They are bored, discouraged, and frustrated at the loneliness that comes with the instructions to limit social interactions. As week by week goes by, there is no doubt that faith and resolve are tested, and that we are weakened by our physical distance from one another. Not only do I want to see all of my brethren together at worship, I long for the day when we can all gather at my home just to be together, to talk, hug and laugh together.
Not all have been spiritually weakened by our national response to the virus. But some have. I ask that all be mindful of our responsibility to, “…strengthen the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees, and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be dislocated, but rather be healed” (Hebrews 12:12-13).
The vaccines are now available. There are some challenges due to the logistics of vaccinating an entire nation. Especially when some have distrust for the government, and are concerned about taking a vaccine that has only had limited testing.
I was vaccinated on Wednesday morning. I thanked God with a joyful heart that I have been spared sickness up to this point, and look forward to getting the second shot, and the relative safety that will accompany my resistance to serious illness from the virus.
So, I want to share with you a few thoughts that I have been having for the past couple of weeks. I would like you to consider these things carefully, and know that I share them because of my love for each of you.
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Are the vaccines safe? The science seems to show the vaccinations to be safe. It contains none of the virus, and serious side effects are rare. My doctor sent a blanket recommendation to all of his cancer patients, regardless of their specific condition, to get the vaccine. I have confidence in him. He is a good doctor, and is very concerned about my welfare. His endorsement of the vaccine gives me confidence.
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Is the virus dangerous? Maybe not to everyone. But, to many it absolutely is. We lost our brother Monty. I recently heard of a young Christian mother in Oklahoma who lost her life to the virus. The fact that the entire nation is social distancing is proof that the virus is dangerous. It is much more dangerous to you than any possible side effect from the vaccination.
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Should you take the vaccine? Good question! First, talk to your doctor and ask. If he or she says yes, then unless you have some pang of conscience, please do! But, please understand that my exhortation for you to get vaccinated is expressly a desire for your spiritual welfare, not your physical welfare.
Brethren, we need to get back to the spiritual norms that have helped us grow and mature as the people of God. If your fear of the physical consequences of assembling have kept you from meeting with God’s people, and worshipping Him as He expects, then an opportunity to inoculate yourself against the danger is one you should not pass up.
I have no problem with someone saying, “I can’t come because of the virus. My health will not allow it.” However, I will be truly concerned about any Christian having the means to begin worshiping again (the vaccines), and choosing not to pursue that means. That is something that every member at West Side should consider. Your first priority must always be your service to God.
And so, at long last I have joyful expectations. I finally see a light at the end of the tunnel. If all who need to be vaccinated do so, we can begin again to offer one another the right hand of fellowship, the holy kiss, the encouragement of assembly one with another, and the great privilege of worshipping the Almighty in spirit and truth. That is the great day I long for, and see for us in the near future!
