God’s Spirit is being poured out
At the start of this new year God had me preach a message about visions and dreams based on Joel 2:28-29, God’s promise to pour out His Spirit on all people. I remember sharing my heart that this was not just the start of a new year, but also the start of a new decade – and we get to help history write how this decade will be remembered. I challenged the hearers to focus more intently on what God is downloading to each of us and to write down this revelation and make it plain (Habakkuk 2:2). My heart said God was about to do something amazing, and we would be the heralds that took this to the world.
“More people are seeing the church in action now than ever before in our lifetimes.”
Three months later, we are in the throes of a global epidemic such as our generation has never experienced. Yet God’s Spirit has indeed been poured out upon people. While church buildings may have closed down, the Church is more alive than ever. Small flocks are stepping into the technological age and are seeing remarkable things. One pastor who shepherds a flock of 25 saw one of their services posted on YouTube receive over 350 views. He was amazed!
Others are holding small group Bible studies on Zoom. Prayer meetings are being held online and via email. There is a group of churches joining together for a drive-In worship service. A local radio station volunteered to broadcast the service on their station, and families drive to the parking lot and tune in their radio as the service is held on the front steps. Churches that have never used online giving are now receiving offerings in that way.
These are exciting times for the Body of Christ, and we must stay focused as God navigates us through this season. God has blessed each of us with gifts and talents to use and share for the advancement of His Kingdom and for the glory of God. The creative ways we have seen God’s Word getting out to the masses is incredible. But equally incredible is the way churches are sharing their ideas and networking with other churches so the Kingdom grows.
More people are seeing the church in action now than ever before in our lifetimes. There are so many opportunities to show God’s love as local authorities are looking to churches to help distribute food, give rides and help where needed – and God’s people are stepping up!
Keep following the leading of the Holy Spirit. Act on and share those dreams and visions God is downloading to you. God will have a harvest season soon, so “let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” (Gal.6:9) What a potential harvest there will be as we transition from the virtual church back into the physical church!
What are some of the creative ways God has given to you and the flock you serve that we can share with others? Please let the BCNE know so we can celebrate and share all that God is doing. Remember, in the darkest times – the Light shines the brightest.
Russ Rathier serves as the Vermont regional coordinator for the Baptist Convention of New England.