We have been shut in. I know it has been difficult. It is hard not to be able to see all of the people that you care about. It is hard when our routines are changed through no fault of our own. It is hard when we have to gather in new ways. But this is a place that Jesus’ Church has been before. The apostles were hidden in a room, Paul was in prison, Christians were forced underground because of persecution, still God’s Word marched onward. The thing that we have to remember about God’s Word is that it is strong. Stronger than we can imagine. It has come from Jesus’ Apostles and been handed down to us. It has lasted over 2000 years, and will continue to last until Jesus comes again. There will never be a time when we are cut off. There will never be a time when God’s Word no longer works. God’s Holy Spirit works through these words, and they will not return to God empty. Some have tried to bury God’s Word. Some have tried to twist it into something that is no longer God’s truth. But in the end God’s Word reigns as surely as Jesus rose from the dead. This good news that Jesus died for the sins of the world and rose again from the dead takes away fear and doubt. It takes away the sting of death. Jesus rose and those faithful who hear His Word and believe will rise as well. Be at peace as you gather around your computer on Sunday. Be at peace as you read your Bible. Be at peace at Bible Study. Be at peace no matter what the world throws at you. You are in the world, but not of the world. You are of Jesus. You know peace. A peace that seems outlandish to the world. You have heard God’s truth and believed. So, through imprisonment or social distancing, through times of gathering or times of loneliness, Jesus is with you. In His Word His Holy Spirit continues to work. Hear it wherever you may be, and be at peace.
Faith Lutheran Church 