Our Calling as God’s People

Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them… and teaching them (Mt. 28:19, 20).

            You have probably been hearing a lot lately about the “new normal” and about churches that are “open” or “closed” for worship.  In reality, our church has never been closed, and we have continued to worship.  It just happens to be online right now.  And, were we to invite everybody for in-person worship, it wouldn’t be much like the worship that we have been used to.

            Health guidelines include sanitizing almost everything, not engaging in high risk activities like singing, and not sharing food or drink after the service.  It is also recommended by health officials that those in high risk categories (e.g. those over 60) refrain from attending worship.  And all of this is while maintaining at least two meters of distance between people who don’t live in the same household.  While many people miss gathering for worship, this is probably not the experience they are hoping for.

            In the midst of our present circumstances, a number of authors have been suggesting that our thinking about the church needs to shift.  After all, gathering together for worship is not the only purpose of the church.  We are to be disciples and to make disciples, as the Evangelical Declaration of the ELCIC reminds us.

            While worshiping together certainly strengthens us in our faith, simply attending services does not make anybody a disciple of Jesus.  Daily prayer helps.  Reading and studying the Bible helps.  Serving others helps.  Practicing mercy and generosity helps.  Stretching our comfort zone and stepping out in faith to follow the Spirit’s leading also helps.

            And so, one of the questions that I am asking at present goes something like this:  What would help you to grow in your faith and in your walk with Jesus?  In asking this question, I am thinking of those in all sorts of circumstances.

            Those of you who are working long hours and also looking after your families, what would help you grow in your faith?  Those of you who are raising children, what would help you?  Those of you who don’t access the internet and don’t go out much, what would help you?  Those of you who are still finding your way in the world, what would help you?  Those of you who already spend hours online every day, what would help you?  Those of you who are scared of Bible studies, what would help you?

            At least one author suggests that we in the church need to be less concerned about attendance and more concerned about engagement.  What would engage you in a daily journey with Jesus where you can not only grow in your faith, but share your faith with others?  Would a small group of some sort help?  Would a prayer partner help?  Would online resources help?

            I invite you to let me know what has helped or would help you to grow in your faith and in your relationship with Jesus.  For, all of us continue to be called to be disciples and to make disciples, whether we can gather together in person or not.  This is the work of the Holy Spirit, who works through all those with open minds and willing hearts, for the sake of Jesus Christ our Lord.

            In Christ,

            Pastor Lynne Hutchison