In a world that has been shut down due to a pandemic, the church has had to rethink how to transmit the life-giving message of Jesus Christ to believers and non-believers alike.
Recently, Isaiah 43:19 has been on my heart.
I believe this scripture is a prophetic declaration for the season we are in, to bring the gospel to the whole world. God said through Isaiah: “Behold, I will do a new thing, now it shall spring forth; shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wilderness and rivers in the desert” (NKJV).
Two things stand out to me about this verse.
First, when God is up to something new, He does the impossible, bringing new pathways in places where they seemingly would never exist, like rivers in the desert. It’s amazing to me how God has pushed the church to reach the world in new ways during this season.
Second, God invites us to see what He is already doing, even if it has not yet manifested in our reality. Just as Jesus invited His disciples to pray for God’s kingdom to show up on Earth, the Lord invites us to see a heavenly vision as reality.
I see millions of souls coming to Jesus in this season. What do you see?
Prayer + Reflection
- Ask the Lord how you can leverage every opportunity to reach the world through new methods of ministry. Pray for a new vision in this unique season.
- Pray for God to inspire church members and attendees to step up to the task of bringing the gospel to their friends, neighbors and loved ones. What could that look like in present circumstances?
- As much of our country begins to emerge from isolation in this pandemic, let’s pray: “Lord, please heal our land and give our leaders wisdom. Please keep our people safe and make us strong and able to work. Please be present with us in our isolation and draw Your children close to Your heart. We thank You for the refuge You provide in times of fear and danger. Amen.”
Resources
Paul Kuzma, director of Foursquare’s Center for Spiritual Renewal—East, has put together a helpful roundup of articles and resources about the COVID-19 pandemic specifically for pastors. See Paul’s list of helpful articles if you serve in a church leadership role or care for the community.
Share your thoughts. See comments below, and add your own.
