This week, I had the honor of facilitating a conversation among several pastors. While COVID-19 has presented challenges to us all, we focused our conversation on the opportunities before us. Here are some of the highlights:
How are you connecting with Jesus, your family, and friends?
My quiet time has been very rich during this season of social distancing. I’ve been trying to take advantage of the extra time at home to be in the Word and in prayer.
I’ve begun a new practice of writing a Gratitude journal. It’s helping me become a glass half-full person. “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” - 1 Thes. 5:17-18
Speaking of gratitude, I’ve been taking time to write a note or email expressing appreciation and encouragement to someone I interacted with from that day. The intent is to bless someone, but I’ve been surprised to find how much this simple act affects my mood in a positive way.
I reach out to more people than I used to. Lately, I’ve been going through the church database and talking with people I haven’t really had conversations with before. I’m forming new relationships and it has been so refreshing.
I’ve been hosting various Bible studies on Zoom and am grateful to be able to open the Word with fellow believers.
Don't get me wrong, my family and I spend some time watching Netflix, but we're trying to be intentional about also reading with our kids and playing board games.
What are some ways you and your church are sharing the gospel & serving the community?
Every pastor expressed that they are very involved with local food pantries because the demand is significantly higher. Contact your local food pantry for opportunities to serve.
Our congregation has made surgical masks to pass out to the community.
I’ve been bringing in people who have some expertise in various aspects of our current social situation. I recently interviewed a Christian mental health professional and asked, “What should we be doing right now?”
A friend posted a video to social media sharing the gospel and his testimony.
I’m inviting non-believers to join me in a Bible study of one of the gospels.
My family and I prayerwalk. We walk through our neighborhood and pray for the people in each home. You never know what God might be doing through our prayers.
Let’s keep the conversation going. What ideas can you begin to implement in your life? How do you answer the questions above and what advice would you give to others? Please share in the comments.
Opmerkingen