Throughout this pandemic we have had to make many, many decisions that required much study, research, input from others, hours upon hours of meetings (via Zoom), texts and emails, thought, prayer and meditation. Our aim has always been to please God and protect the flock.
As with all things that require changes involving several people, there will be differences of opinions and alternative methods or processes to be proposed and considered. Through God’s design ultimate responsibility for every member rests with the elders.
As bookends throughout this process we have considered two verses. From the shepherds’ standpoint, 1 Corinthians 14:40 reminds us to ” Let all things be done decently and in order.” From all affected members’ standpoint is Philippians 2:14, “Doing all things without murmuring and disputing.”
There will always be differences among brethren. We come into the kingdom with many different backgrounds and perspectives. It takes effort and time until we all develop the “mind of Christ” and the “oneness of mind” for which Paul pleaded in Philippians 2:2. We can work through these differences by having attitudes of gentleness, patience, and humility prescribed in 2 Timothy 2:23-26. We can aspire to the qualities of longsuffering, forbearance, and forgiveness described in Colossians 3:12-13. We can develop a willingness to forego personal liberties as exemplified by Paul in 1 Corinthians 8:13. By doing these things we can truly achieve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (Eph. 4:3).
The children of Israel “murmured” frequently throughout their wilderness wanderings, and that became a characteristic for which they were known. But as Christians we have so much to be thankful for, including salvation in Christ Jesus, which includes every spiritual blessing (Eph. 1:3) and assurance of a Heavenly Father who understands and will provide for our needs (Matt. 6:31-33; Heb. 13:5-6).
“In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thess. 5:18). Let us be thankful for each other and have an “attitude of gratitude” that will see us through this pandemic.
As your shepherds “We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers” (1 Thess. 1:2).
For Your Shepherds, Gregg Woodall