Thursday, April 30 2020 Devotional
"I say: Keep the king's command, because of God's oath to him. Be not hasty to go from his presence. Do not take your stand in an evil cause, for he does whatever he pleases. For the word of the king is supreme, and who may say to him, "What are you doing?" Whoever keeps a command will know no evil thing, and the wise heart will know the proper time and the just way." -Ecclesiastes 8:2-5
Yesterday the Governor of Arizona announced that the stay-at-home directive will be extended for two more weeks, until May 15th. This wasn’t unexpected. For some the extension was a relief, for others - especially people trying to keep a small business afloat - it’s frustrating.
Yesterday, before the Governor’s announcement, we had a Deacons’ meeting and one of the things we discussed was reopening the church for Sunday services. We decided that we would have to wait and see what the Governor said before we made the decision. Now we know the answer; it will be another two weeks.
God’s Word is full of Instructions to the believer about how we are to relate to our governing authority. The verses above remind us that civil authorities are a servant of God for our good, and that they, like we, will respond to God for their actions. The verses also remind us that within the instruction to obey and honor our rulers, there is room for godly wisdom. ”...the wise heart will know the proper time and the just way.”
When we do begin services in the sanctuary once again, we will seek God’s wisdom for the best ways to keep everyone safe and still be able to enjoy the Christian fellowship that we love so much.
Meanwhile, we will celebrate the Lord’s Supper this Sunday with a drive-in service in the parking lot. If you are joining us online, and are in the Mesa area, please let us know and we will be sure to deliver the communion elements to you before Sunday.
If you’re further away, prepare bread and wine (or unfermented grape juice) so that you can participate with us. And most of all, prepare your heart to receive the body and blood of our Savior and be assured once again, it was for your salvation that He suffered, died, and rose again.
His peace be with you.
Dear Lord Jesus, thank you for giving us wise governors, and for the freedom we have to worship You and hear your holy Word. Keep my heart close to You during this time of isolation. Let your presence be known in our worship and bless the bonds of fellowship that we have come to love so much in your Kingdom. Amen.