Dear Church Family,
These are unprecedented times. I’ve spent this week struggling with decisions related to this outbreak and what should be our response. Schools are closed, sporting events have been suspended, as of Tuesday (March 17) restaurants are closed or limited to take-out/drive thru and delivery, movie theaters, gyms, parks, entertainment venues have been closed by order of the mayor. These are very different times. It is now reported that we do have “communicated” cases of the virus in Tulsa and other places in Oklahoma and the number of confirmed cases are rising. The mayor and governor, following the advice of the CDC, have urged all groups of 50 or more to cease meeting. Especially if there are 8 or more people in the group who are in the “at risk” category. At risk would include people over 60, people with underlying health issues such as heart, lung, kidney or liver disease. Further it includes diabetes, compromised immune systems, recent surgery or a scheduled surgery, pregnant women and nursing mothers and the list seems to grow daily.
What should be our response? The answer is not an easy one. On the one hand we must not panic. God has not given us a spirit of fear. We are confident in the grace and power of our God and so we trust in the Hand of Providence. At the same time, we are not to be foolish. We must not stand arrogantly and declare ourselves immune by the power of God. We must respond biblically and appropriately declaring our dependence on our God. At the same time Scripture is clear, we must obey the authorities over us. We should listen to and respect the direction given by doctors, medical experts and those charged with overseeing public health. This too must be balanced. We do not owe “blind allegiance” to government at any level. Governments do not always make godly decisions. Further, as government leaders meet they are not asking, “What does the Scripture say?” So, we must prayerfully weigh the issues involved and make the decision that seems right.
We have already said, “If you are sick you should stay home.” We have said, “If you are in the at risk category, you should stay home.” This is about loving your neighbor. It is recognizing that this is not about you but about others. We do not want to unnecessarily expose others to danger. We do not want to use our freedom to endanger those who are the most vulnerable. To miss church out of love of neighbor and because you are providentially hindered due to illness is not sin. A decision to suspend services during this crisis is not sin, rebellion or a denial of the faith. My concern is, what message are we sending? The mayor, the governor and the CDC have asked that all non-essential meetings be suspended. But for us, as the people of God, the gathering of the church is essential. I’m grateful for technology and the ability to live stream services but while that is beneficial and allows people to participate in the service, it is not the same as gathering together for worship. Sitting in front of a computer screen, television screen, tablet or cell phone is not the same as gathering face to face for worship. It is acceptable as a temporary, necessary option but it is not a substitute.
After much struggle and in consultation with our deacons we will be suspending all services and gatherings here at the church until April 12 when we will reevaluate and determine our next steps. This is not an easy decision but it is made in what we believe to be the best interest of all involved.
The church office will be open during the week and we want to respond to needs as they arise. If you need assistance from the pastor, please call. If you need help with groceries, or other needs please let us know. This is a time for us to pull together, love and serve one another. Above all pray. Pray that this ends quickly. Pray for those affected by this virus. Pray for our leaders and healthcare professionals and the decisions they make. Pray for our first responders as they will be on the front line of this crisis.
In closing I want to encourage you to remember the financial needs of our church. These are crucial times. Many are facing the real possibility of layoffs and reduced income. Add to that the fact that lack of attendance means lack of income for the church. We have ongoing expenses whether we are meeting or not. So, please take advantage of online giving. Of course you can mail your gifts or stop by the church office during the week and drop it in the mail slot or ring the bell. Our prayer is that this ends soon.
Please check the church website for information. As decisions are made we will post there and through prayrchain and email. Please stay in contact with others through text, phone calls, face time and other safe means. Please practice the safe distancing urged by the CDC, the governor’s office and our mayor. This is a very serious matter.
Blessings,
Pastor Rod
p.s.: We are looking into live streaming and will notify you if we are able to get that up and running. In the meantime take advantage of the sermon archives on the church website and the many sources of quality Bible teaching available online.