Keep Calm
In the chaos of World War 2 while Great Britain endured the fearful night bombing raids, the rationing, and men leaving their families to go off to war there was a poster which was widely circulated to the British people that simply said this. “Keep Calm and Carry On.” In other words, no matter what the enemy throws at us, we will face it with a sure and calm resolve that we will see this calamity through, together.
In the midst of the COVID-19 outbreak, we are no doubt living in extraordinary times. Who would have dreamed that we would live to see store shelves running low on food, the closure of movie theatres, restaurants, bars, and even our churches!
It’s during these times of uncertainty that Pastors are often sought out to give counsel and advice to worried people. However, in the midst of all the chaos, you likely have questions of your own. How do I care for the needs of the church? How will I connect with the sick or elderly or those who need counselling? These are all very important questions. But perhaps the biggest question you have is; How I’m I going to do it all?
Often times we Pastors have a super-hero complex, we feel like it’s our duty to be Superman and save the world. We have somehow made it our responsibility to fix every situation, attend every meeting, visit the sick, lead the worship services, be involved in community events, local outreaches, family counselling, baby dedications... I could keep going but I think you get my drift. But honestly, how do you respond to all the needs that are arising in the mists of the chaos? Below are a few thoughts that I trust will help and encourage you in the days ahead.
1. Ditch the Super-hero Complex
Pastor, I want you to know that you don’t have to do it all! Its ok to release yourself from the super-hero complex and the expectation that you must save the world. It may be an expectation from some of your congregants, but it’s not an expectation from God so let it go. Psalms 46 says “God is our refuge and strength and a very present help in times of trouble.” So rest in Him, rely on His word knowing His shoulders are bigger than yours and He will see you through as you draw close to him.
2. Give it Away
Take this opportunity to give some ministry away to others. Ehp. 4 says that we are called to equip the saints for the work of the ministry. While it’s sad that we can’t carry on business as usual, this is a great opportunity to empower others to lead. Do you need someone to call and follow up with parishioners? Why not create a phone tree by asking 4 or 5 reliable congregants or board members to develop a list of 8 or 10 people each, have them call each person to see how they’re doing. Ask questions like. How are you feeling or can I pray for you? What do you need right now? In most cases, the people you have entrusted to do this can handle the request’s they will encounter. If its something more serious, have your leaders report back to you with only the most important items that need your attention. By doing so you empower your people to serve in a new way, you get to give some things away and release yourself from all of the heavy lifting, so go ahead, give it away.
3. Lean on the One Another Commandments
There are approximately 60 one another commandments in the Bible. Eph. 5:21 says; “Speak to one another with songs and Spiritual Hymns.” In the event, people need to or are otherwise required to self-isolate themselves, use a digital platform to communicate. After all, most everyone has a supercomputer in their pocket. Encourage your people to use face-time or some other type of platform to connect virtually with one another, in this way we can follow the Biblical pattern of encouraging one another, praying for one another, and exhorting one another. The Bible instructs us not to give up meeting together as some are in the habit of doing... Hebrews 10:25. What better way to stay connected then by holding virtual meetups! Besides, haven’t you always wanted to go to church in your pyjamas?
4. Keep Preaching the Word
It may be tempting during this time to stop preparing messages, after all, if the church is closed, what’s the point? But instead of stopping, take this opportunity to post your sermon notes on your church website, share them on Facebook or in a Facebook group. Record encouraging devotionals on your phone during the week and send it out to your church.
You can also access online resources form the District Resource Centre or other good Biblical based ministries that you can post to encourage people in your community and sphere of influence. Pastor this is a time in our history when people are looking for good answers to life’s big questions and you have those answers through the inspired word of God and the power of the Holy Spirit. Don’t be afraid but rather ‘always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks... for the hope that you have.” - 1 Peter 3:15
There’s no mistaking that we are in challenging times but let’s stick together, pray together, and encourage on another.
Lastly let me leave you with this: George Young was a poor itinerate preacher in the late 1800s who lost all he owned when some people who were hostile towards the gospel set his house on fire, burning it to the ground. It was in this desperate time that he penned the words of the hymn “God leads His dear children along.” One part of the song goes like this.
Some through the waters some through the flood, some through the fire but all through the blood, some through great sorrow but God gives a song, In the night season and all the day long.
God bless you Pastor, Keep Calm and Carry On…
Corey Randell serves as the Assistant Superintendent at the District Resource Centre. Corey is known for his passion and ‘tell it like it is’ speaking style. He believes there are no impossible situations but that every challenge is an opportunity to witness the miraculous. His passion is to mobilize people to re-think church, reach others and encounter the power of God in today’s world.