Reopening
As we approach the end of the stay at home order here in Alabama, we have begun to discuss what happens next. As a staff we have discussed and planned for many different strategies, and ways to resume services at the church facility. What has been interesting though, is that as we have been going through this process it has become apparent that we all do not necessarily agree on exactly what we should do and how much caution we should take. As I thought about this the other day, I couldn’t help but to think about how this is probably true of many of us at NSBC. The truth is when God calls us out of darkness and into marvelous light as a part of the family of God, it doesn’t mean we all think alike about any and everything. It doesn’t mean we all the sudden agree with every Christian on every decision that is made. If you have been in church for any amount of time you have undoubtedly found this to be true. No, instead when we are saved by grace through faith, we all still have many things that make us different and unique. With that being said, the coronavirus has highlighted this reality in the American church. There are some that think we should hunker down and be extremely cautious, while others think much of this has been overblown and is not that big of a deal. Then there are many that probably fall somewhere in between those two opinions. It doesn’t help that much of our news media, politicians, and medical professionals have shared varying thoughts about this situation, and as a result have done little to help settle the matter.
However, with that being said, I am thankful for the unity that the staff has been able to have, as we look forward together even though we don’t all agree on everything. And, it is this reality I want to draw your attention to this week. The unity we have in Christ is far greater and more important than the differences people often use to divide over. And as we look towards re-opening the church, I pray that this would remain true. I share this because I know that there will be some who think we are too cautious about how we are moving forward, and I know there will be some who think we are not cautious enough. To lead in the midst of this unusual time does not give itself to easy answers, but we, as your staff, want you to know that our desire is to walk by faith as we seek to be wise and take seriously our responsibility to protect people as much as we responsibly can. As we move forward together as a church, I pray we will not allow differences of opinions to keep us from being united in Christ. May we never forget that what unites us together is far more important and powerful than that which would seek to divide us. And with that being said, may we also remember the words of John 13:35, “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” I don’t know about you, but I’m so glad I’m a part of the family of God! I know I can speak for the staff when I say, we can’t wait to see each of you very soon!
Pastor Mike Meadows
