Dear Friends:

In a Star Trek Next Generation episode called “The Best of Both Worlds,” the Enterprise and the Federation are facing an enemy both more powerful and unlike any they encountered in the past.  It is very possible that humans will be completely wiped out within the next few days.  To make matters even worse, the captain of the Enterprise has been abducted by this enemy.  On the eve of battle, the first officer addresses his crew.  He starts with:

I’m sure if the captain were here, he would have some very inspirational words for all of us.  In truth, I wish he were here because I’d like to hear it too.

At some point we have been taught that great leaders “inspire” people… but we don’t really need to look to leaders to inspire us.  We need to look to Jesus Christ.

Did Jesus ever face anything like COVID and shutdowns and quarantines?  Shortly after his baptism, Jesus went out into the wilderness for 40 days and night.  It seems like we’ve been in the wilderness FOR 158 DAYS or thereabouts.  Yes, that is true.  The wilderness is a very different place than what we were used to.  Are we tempted to give in to anger and despair?  Sure.  But instead of that, think about what opportunities we have.  I’m not talking about an opportunity to repaint the deck, or replace the kitchen floor (although lumberyards and hardware stores are doing a great business).  I’m talking about taking the time to reflect on people you love, and reflect on how much Jesus loves you.

We will leave this pandemic behind… it will likely be a combination of preventative medications and vaccines, but we will leave this behind.  But although we will leave it behind, we will all be changed.  Jesus emerged from the wilderness stronger that when he went in.  We can also emerge stronger.

Aside from fasting, the Bible doesn’t record what Jesus did in the wilderness.  After the 40 days and 40 nights, we know that Jesus was tempted, but beyond fasting, we don’t know what he did DURING.  We can only guess that he strengthened his relationship with his holy father our Lord and God.

You have an opportunity to strengthen your relationship with the Lord during this time.  PRAY to your heavenly father for guidance.  Look for opportunities to be the hands and feet of Jesus.  There will be a day when we gather for coffee hour after church like we used to, and break bread together, and just talk… BUT… we will all be different people.

Think about how your soul will be changed, and what you want this new person to be like.  Look to God for help to become that person.

Blessings and keep the faith!

Pastor Phil