That’s Gonna Hurt

You know it well. You wince or bite your nails because you see something ominous coming in someone's life, and as the adrenaline-rushed-slow-motion scene reveals itself, you mutter, "That's gonna hurt." We have weathered the Coronavirus "storm" for a few weeks now, and we're noticing that it is creating a world of hurt.

Several we know have come down with Coronavirus. Let's pray for healing. Many are trying to be a blessing to neighbors and family who are without work. Longer lines are forming at the few food pantries remaining open. Unemployment has skyrocketed. Family elationships are stretched thin as people live in close quarters for an extended time. Isolation is resulting in depression for some.

Not a few have made the remark that the world scene looks apocalyptic. Christians are wondering if Christ is coming soon. The Muslims believe a situation like this could bring their "Messiah." Secularists are looking for someone to rule the world through a new world order (i.e., Antichrist). Techno-biologists are looking for opportunities to use immunizations to implant chips and alter human DNA.

Christian brothers and sisters, now is the time to share the message of hope in Christ! He will sustain us and help us now--and He is the way to eternal life beyond this hurting planet!

If you're reading this, seeing the world's situation, and wondering how you can know Jesus, keep reading.

First, we have a resource you can share with others or utilize personally at start.odbc-church.com. This link will go to a form that will launch a free, no-pressure Bible study that can be done wherever, whenever. It has four parts and explains the Bible basics of salvation and how to know God. (Note: We put the first lessons up because we think it's important for people to get started sooner than later.) There are several people who requested the Bible study this week, and we are anticipating God will bless those studies.

Second, we are grateful for so many who have been coming together online to watch and participate in the services via facebook.com/opendooronline and youtube.com/opendooronline. We can't see everyone, but we can interact, comment, and pray for each other as we "geaux" to church together. Statistically, more people are tuning into church services online than were going to church buildings to watch services before Coronavirus. Take a moment to share and invite others to watch with you! I could tell you about what I am excited about preaching on Sunday morning at 10:30, but I think most people have really enjoyed the opportunity of connecting in this whole experience.

This Coronavirus event is gonna hurt. It is a mass disruption to what we're used to. I believe God put the "brakes" on normal life to get our attention. Sometimes that hurts, but when we turn back to Him, His blessings, help, and revival follow.

Reply if there's a blessing or prayer need you have. I am missing everyone and am praying for you!

In Christ,
Pastor Dennis M. Schaffer