The Body of Christ’s Response to Novel Coronavirus and COVID-19
“Most of our brother Christians showed unbounded love and loyalty, never sparing themselves and thinking only of one another. Heedless of danger, they took charge of the sick, attending to their every need and ministering to them in Christ, and with them departed this life serenely happy; for they were infected by others with the disease, drawing on themselves the sickness of their neighbors and cheerfully accepting their pains. Many, in nursing and curing others, transferred their death to themselves and died in their stead . . . The best of our brothers lost their lives in this manner, a number of presbyters, deacons, and laymen winning high commendation so that death in this form, the result of great piety and strong faith, seems in every way the equal of martyrdom.”
–St. Dionysius of Alexandria, 3rd century
Children of the Lord, be encouraged. Fear not. God is in control. For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” (2 Timothy 1:7) In a time of crisis and worldwide panic, it is best to make wise decisions based on the present. Do not look too forward into the future, but be present in this moment. Watch, pray for wisdom and make the wisest decision possible.
As the Word of Our Lord says in John 14:27, “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” May the peace of heaven encompass you. May your eyes see through the lens of faith and not fear. May the Lord give you a heart for others in this time of uncertainty, that together the body of Christ may reach the lost; those who face persecution and great loss. We are the united body of Christ, and because of that, we put others ahead of ourselves.
In the coming weeks and months, we have an opportunity to be selfless and sacrificial to those less fortunate than ourselves. The Lord generously provides all we need. He has blessed us to be a blessing to others – both physically and spiritually. We can give many ways: financially, prayerfully and by offering hope to the hopeless. Let us have a daily faith where we gather, pray, study, and look for opportunities to share what we have. “Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind, let each esteem another better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.” (Philippians 2:3-4)
Although this virus is contagious, may our selflessness become even more contagious. May we spread love, hope, grace, and life. For we do not store our treasures on earth, we store up our treasures in heaven.
Friends of FFHL, because of your generosity, we are able to offer many life-giving resources to our brothers and sisters in Christ. We stand united in this crisis with a deep faith in an unshakable God. Thank you for your prayers and support. Thank you for your gifts to preserve the Living Stones of the Holy Land, even in such a time as this. May the Lord bless and keep you.
Lord God Almighty, build the faith for your people. That our light would shine in this world. For those hurting and sick, we pray healing and protection. We pray for world leaders and for your church. May our light shine bright when the world grows dark. Help us see opportunities to show your love, generously and sacrificially to let your light shine bright to those who need you today.
Let Us Pray!
