Who is the Christ of Christmas?

It's Christmas time! The time we think Christmas decorations, trees and sparkling lights, Santa and presents, turkey and food, dinners and parties, seasonal jumpers and clothes, carols and Christmas songs, and so much more. We dash about seeking to make Christmas so magical for children and enjoyable for all the family. Perhaps we love the carol services and Bible readings about the Baby Jesus at this special time of year. But do we really take time to consider the Christ of Christmas?

Who is the Christ of Christmas? Well, in order to help us understand, let us consider the words of angels and of people who bore witness to the incarnation.

1. Angel Gabriel to Mary

Please read Luke 1v26-38 and consider what was so important that God sent an archangel to announce the birth of Jesus to Mary. In this passage we hear Gabriel announce the Virgin Birth of Jesus and speak of His Kingship. He calls Him Jesus, Son of the Highest, Holy and the Son of God.

Gabriel greeted Mary saying that she was blessed among (not above) women. She was probably in her late teens but she was highly favoured by God to be the mother of Jesus. Jesus means Saviour. He is the Only Saviour from sin. The Saviour of the world is the Son of the Highest (v31+32). There is no higher authority than the Almighty Sovereign God. 

Jesus will reign as King, being a direct descendant of David (v32). We know that one day Jesus will reign over all the earth as King of kings. But His first coming was for Him to die to be the Saviour of the world.

Mary wanted to know how this would come about as she was a virgin. Gabriel explained the miraculous Virgin birth to her. Jesus is the Holy Son of God (v35). He is absolutely Sinless. He cannot sin. Only a Sinless Saviour could die for our sins. 

Virgin Birth, King, Jesus, Son of the Highest, Holy Son of God

Mary was submissive to God's will and plan (v38).... even though there would be many difficult times ahead for her. The Saviour, the Sinless Son of God wishes to reign supreme in our lives. 

2. Elizabeth

Read about Mary visiting Elizabeth in Luke 1v39-56. Elizabeth was 6 months pregnant with John the Baptist. He leaped in her womb with joy when Mary arrived and greeted Elizabeth. This tiny little one in her womb could express joy at what was happening around him. He was not just a fetus with no intellect, feeling, emotions or rights. What an amazing introduction! After all, John the Baptist was going to prepare the way for Christ. Then, Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke out, saying that Jesus was her Lord (v43).

My Lord

What a wonderful acknowledgment. Christ was not just the Lord but He was her Lord. It was personal.

3. Angel to Joseph

Read about the angel reassuring Joseph to marry Mary (Matthew 1v18-25). Stop and try to imagine how Joseph must have felt... confusion, disappointment, hurt.... He knew he wasn't the father. Perhaps he thought, 'How could Mary do this to me? Does she not truly love me? I did not think Mary was the sort of girl who would be unfaithful to me.' Betrothal to be married in Joseph's day was so much more binding than engagement, as we know it, today. It was as binding as the marriage vows and so for Mary to have been with another man would have been considered adultery. And yet Joseph loved Mary. He did not wish to publicly shame or disgrace her. So, he was going to divorce Mary privately. But how exactly would he go about this?

Then, in the midst of all this turmoil of mind, an angel appeared to him in a dream. What that angel told him was of utmost importance. Joseph needed to hear of the Virgin Birth. Then, he understood that Mary had not been unfaithful to him. She was a pure virgin chosen by God to bring the Messiah into the world. The angel reminded him of God's prophecy in the Old Testament concerning the virgin birth of Christ. He was to be called Jesus which means Saviour for He would save His people from their sins. Jesus is Emmanuel... God and Man... God with us.

Jesus, Son, Virgin Birth, Saviour, Emmanuel, God with us

The Word from God brought calm to Joseph in the midst of all the turmoil of his mind. Now he understood God's purpose in this all. So, with calm assurance he determined to obey the Lord. Yes, he was going to be misunderstood but he was going to provide for and protect Mary and Jesus.

Calm assurance from God's Word can bring peace to your troubled mind in the midst of all the turmoil in your life.

4. Angel of the Lord to the shepherds

Read about the Angel of the Lord announcing Christ's birth to the shepherds (Luke 2v8-14). The Angel called Him Saviour, Christ the Lord. There is an emphasis on the Saviour. Angels informed Mary, Joseph and the shepherds about Jesus the Saviour.

Christ means Messiah, the Promised One. Ever since the Garden of Eden the Messiah had been promised throughout the Old Testament. The Jews believed the Messiah was from the line of king David and He would deliver Israel. However, we know from the New Testament that Jesus came the first time to die to save us from our sins. Next time, He is coming to set up His earthly kingdom. He is Lord and He should be exalted and worshipped as Lord over all.

Saviour, Christ the Lord

The shepherds hurried to Bethlehem and found Jesus, Mary and Joseph. They met the Good Shepherd and beheld the Lamb of God and they went away glorifying and praising God. They went and told it all around to other people. They just could not keep this wonderful news to themselves! When the Saviour Christ the Lord fills our lives we just have to praise God and tell others about Him.

 

5. Simeon

Read about Simeon meeting baby Jesus (Luke 2v21-35). Jesus was taken to be circumcised 8 days after His birth. It was then that He met an old man called Simeon in the temple. Simeon recognised who Jesus is and he took Him up in his arms and blessed God. 

Note Simeon said He is the LORD's Christ... not just a promised one but He is the One that the LORD promised to send. Simeon knew that he was holding the Saviour of the world. Christ is the Light of the world and truly He would be that Light that would lighten the Gentiles. All over the world today Gentiles have trusted Christ as their personal Saviour. 

Lord's Christ, Salvation, Light to lighten the Gentiles, Glory of Israel

Simeon had waited patiently to see Christ. He could understand the difference that Christ would make to this sinful world. He even told Mary that a sword would pierce through her own soul (v35). This was fulfilled at Calvary when she was totally heartbroken to see her Sinless Son crucified.

6. Wise Men

Read about the wise men coming to worship Jesus in Matthew 2v1-12. The wise men came looking for the King of the Jews. They travelled hundreds of miles to meet Jesus. I think the wise men understood more than that He is King. When they found Him they worshipped Him. They did not worship Mary or Joseph. They worshipped Christ. Only God is to be worshipped.

King of the Jews

The wise men gave expensive gifts to Jesus of gold, frankincense and myrrh. (Remember that just because there are 3 types of gifts mentioned, it does not mean that there were only 3 wise men). Also, I wonder if, perhaps, these gifts were sold to provide for the family while they were in Egypt?? 

Conclusion

There are so many more testimonies as to who Jesus is. The disciples and others saw and heard Him while He was on earth. But I only took testimonies from around the nativity scenes and they are certainly worth thinking about.

What does Christmas mean to you? Is it just another holiday, albeit a busy chaotic one, especially for you as a mum? Is it a lonely time? Is it a financially difficult time, trying to provide your kids with things like 'Santa' brings to their friends? Is it just one big end of year party? Does Christ have any part in your Christmas?

Whatever your view of Christmas is, I challenge you to stop and think about who the Christ of Christmas is. I have given you a few names and titles of Christ above for you to think about. He is not just the Baby in the manger. Ask yourself what He really means for you in your own life. 

This year Christmas Day is on a Sunday. The early Christians called the first day of the week the Lord's day as Jesus rose from the dead on the first day of the week. It was a day when they met together to specially remember Him. So, perhaps this Sunday, Christmas Day, you would stop and remember, not just the nativity stories, but think about who the true Christ of Christmas really is. 

May Christ the Saviour be special to you this Christmas.

High and Low 2021

There are 2 main events which dominate my memories of 2021, namely a wedding and a funeral. Jemima and Josh were married on 25th May. My mother died on 6th December. The photo below helps combine these 2 events in my mind. How precious to have a photo of mum with Jemima and Josh on their wedding day! 

I never realized that there is as much planning goes into a modern wedding! It's not just getting a venue, dresses, photographer, flowers, cake, sending out some invitations and just showing up to say your vows. It is so much more. There's all the little details like the font and design of the invitations and signage, preparing the sweetie cart, collating photos into a video, the shape and scent of the candles, the meticulous preparations for hair styles and make-up with photographer and videographer in the house recording it all, the arch for flowers and the seating plans, as well as the days spent making the Barn (youth hall) into a clean, suitable venue for the ceremony, both inside and outside. 

Then, add to all this the uncertainty that covid restrictions and lockdown brought. Online shopping challenges included returning unsuitable or damaged goods. Knowing what numbers and specifics we could plan for was always to the fore. What was plan B if we were not allowed to have a wedding reception? However, the one thing that kept us focused was that Jemima and Josh rightly decided not to postpone their date but to go ahead and get married on 25th May. 

Then, the big day arrived and we enjoyed every minute of it. Hospitality had just opened up the day before allowing Jemima and Josh to have the wedding reception they had planned for, albeit with some restrictions still to be adhered to. Below are a few photos of Jemima and Josh's special day. Edenmore country golf club was an absolutely beautiful setting for the reception, and the meal was delicious, too. 

Then, by the end of the year the scene had changed to sadness for me. My mum went into hospital in late November and then passed away on Monday 6th December. Yes, she had fallen in July 2019 and never been home after that but for almost 2 and half years we visited her in hospital or nursing home, when permitted to do so. I know she is absent from the body and present with the Lord. Her suffering is over and she is with Christ which is far better but I am still numb. Grief can be hard to bear sometimes, so my heart goes out to everyone who has lost loved ones, especially coming up to Christmas. May there be brighter days in 2022.

Conclusion

In conclusion, some simple facts come to mind:

1. Marriage was ordained by God and it is the union of one man and one woman. 

Genesis 2v18-24. Jesus reaffirmed this in Matthew 19v1-6.

2. Death is certain and we all need to prepare for it.  

"It is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment." 

Hebrews 9:27 KJV

3. Whatever joy or pain we have been through in 2021, we need to look to the Lord to help us in 2022 to face whatever situations we will find ourselves in. 

"Let us run with patience the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith." 

Hebrews 12v1+2 KJV 

Wishing you every blessing throughout 2022 and thank you for all your prayers, 

Rhonda

Christmas Sadness

This year I have been prompted to think about some difficult and sad situations people can find themselves in over the Christmas season. The death of my mother on the 6th December has had this impact on me. There is just no way that I could write about every difficult situation at Christmas, so I am just going to take a few examples from the Bible stories about Christ's birth and early years. Please note that they will not be in order but I trust they will be an encouragement to you. 

1. Distance from family at Christmas

Jesus, Mary and Joseph fled to Egypt from Herod (see Matthew 2v13-15, 19-23). This was for the protection of the Infant Jesus (who was probably about 2 years old at this stage). Remember Jesus had not come to be killed as a child. Joseph was obedient to God, knowing that He is in control. I wonder do you, parent, obey the Sovereign God for the protection of your children?

God provided for them in Egypt and kept them safe. Perhaps they used the gold, frankincense and myrrh during this time. No doubt they had many lonely times, missing their families but God kept them safe. You know the wonderful thing....they were with Christ every day in Egypt, spending time with Him, getting to know Him better. 

Perhaps you are a great distance from your family or loved ones this Christmas, maybe even because of Covid travel restrictions. Trust the Lord to keep you all safe. Find your hiding place in Christ. Spend time each day with Christ, listening to Him and getting to know Him more.

2. Death at Christmas

Herod ordered all boys 2 years old and under to be killed. Their mothers were inconsolable (Matthew 2v16-18). Satan wants to kill and destroy children. 

Perhaps you have suffered bereavement this Christmas time, maybe even the death of a child. Your heart is breaking, grief is weighing you down and you cannot find comfort from anyone or anything on earth. 

May you find peace, strength and comfort in Christ the Lord this Christmas. He is the Prince of Peace and the God of all comfort.

3. Disappointment, Hurt and Confusion at Christmas

Joseph struggled to accept the miraculous conception of Jesus and considered not marrying Mary. He loved Mary but was no doubt disappointed, hurt and confused that Mary would be unfaithful to him. Perhaps he even thought, 'Why is this happening to me?'

Then, God spoke to him and calmed his every fear.... and Joseph obeyed the Lord and willingly married Mary. He and Mary raised Jesus on earth.. What a wonderful plan Joseph saw unfolding!

God can calm your every fear. Bring your disappointments, hurt and confusion to Him this Christmas. Be willing to obey the Lord, even when your cannot understand why things are happening to you. Then, you will see God working out His plan through you.

4. Difficult Delivery at Christmas

Just think about the difficult circumstances Mary endured as she gave birth to Jesus.

There was the long journey to Bethlehem when heavily pregnant, possibly riding on a donkey. This would have taken several days.

There was no room in any inn, so no comfortable bed for her.

She gave birth to Christ in a dirty stinking stable with just the manger for a cot.

Some of you young ladies may be due to give birth around Christmas time, maybe even your first child. I trust your circumstances will not be as difficult as Mary's; and I wish you joy and blessing with your new baby that God has given you.

Conclusion 

There are many other difficult situations that people can find themselves in at Christmas: sickness, loneliness, financial problems, homelessness, abuse, conflict. I cannot even begin to imagine or understand the depths of difficult circumstances that some people are going through. Let us never forget others less fortunate than ourselves this Christmas. 

Whatever your difficult situation, I exhort you to remember Christ's first coming and to look forward to Christ's second coming. You can read about Christ's first coming in Matthew 1+2; Luke 1+2. Then read 1 Thessalonians 4v13-18 which speaks about His second coming and tells us to comfort one another with these words. 

All Creation Groans

I have listened to lots of talk about climate change recently and COP 26 in Glasgow. The poor old cows are getting a hard time... producing too much gas, maybe even needing to wear masks! 🐄😷😂 

When I hear about climate change and what we must do to save the planet, I cannot help but think... what carbon footprint are all these politicians and world leaders causing by jetting into Glasgow? Then, my mind is drawn to what the Bible teaches. These words come to mind:

"For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now." (Romans 8:22 KJV) 

Here are a few things that the Bible teaches about planet earth and we would do well to consider them:

1. God created all things perfect. Read Genesis chapters 1+2. The earth is the Lord's (Psalm 24v1). He rules over it and He holds it all together (Psalm 19v1-6; Hebrews 1v2+3).

2. However, the whole creation is no longer perfect but bears the curse of sin (Genesis 3; Romans 8v19-23). It is groaning, as it were, with birth pangs, waiting for the day to be delivered.

3. The great worldwide flood of Noah's day was such a catastrophic event that this world still groans with some of the consequences of it. Read about it in Genesis 6-9.

4. Read Luke 21 esp v8-12; 25-28 about signs of the second coming of Christ to earth. Wars; earthquakes; famines; pestilence; fearful sights; great signs from heaven in sun moon and stars; distress of nations; tsunamis, etc. Are all these things beginning to sound familiar happenings in today's world... and some of them put down to climate change? The whole creation groans waiting for the day Christ will return to planet earth.

5. There will be scoffers in the last day (2 Peter 3v3-7). They will scoff about Christ's second coming. They are willingly ignorant of the worldwide flood in Noah's day and the effect it had upon our planet.

6. The heavens and the earth will be destroyed by fire in judgment (2 Peter 3v7+10).

7. In the light of this we are to make sure that we are ready for Christ's second coming to planet earth. (2 Peter 3v11-14; Matthew 24v44).

I am not suggesting that we should not care for our planet and the creatures on it. Nor am I suggesting that the rain forests should be cut down. But I am asking you to study scripture to see for yourself what is going to happen to this planet and get ready for it. 

Goodbye 2020

I guess that most of us are glad to see the end of 2020. Lockdowns, social distancing, masks, sanatizing hands, isolating, bubble groups, are all terms we have become familiar with because of coronavirus restrictions and will still be part of life for the foreseeable future. We have experienced life with churches shut; gyms shut; schools shut; non-essential retail shut; and travel restrictions in place. Many people furloughed or working from home. Politicians squabbling over it and some even breaking their owns rules. In fact, the media has been dominated with it and, of course, social media has had plenty of conspiracy theories too! Perhaps you wish you could wake up in the morning, realize it was all just a bad dream and life is back to the way it was before. Unfortunately, that cannot happen. Mental and spiritual health have been affected. The economy has suffered. But worst of all, people have died from covid-19. 

However, I wish to share some of my precious and positive memories of 2020, despite all the restrictions. Here are just a few photos and reflections:

During the first lockdown we used to clap our NHS heroes. My hero and key worker Adrian had to keep slogging away during lockdown to help make sure people had meat on their tables. We tried to fix each other's hair as hairdressers were closed. Wow, that gave some fantastic photos that are better not shared! 😲😏 We learned how to sanatize and wash our hands... and keep 2 metres apart when we had to do essential shopping. Panic buying of toilet rolls and other products left some empty shelves in stores for a time. Then, we had to wear face coverings / masks and they eventually became mandatory. I suppose they disguise our appearance and, should you step into a supermarket without one on, people have the manners to stand back from you. 😂

Walking

Thankfully God gave us a nice bit of sunshine during the first lockdown, so we could enjoy some time outdoors in our back garden or take a walk. Adrian and I love walking and, of course, Bridie is always ready for 'walkies' but with all the lockdowns and coronavirus restrictions in 2020 I think Bridie has been walked more than ever! Peatlands Park and Windmill Wood are local favourites, rather than going to shopping centres. We got so many laughs from Bridie climbing trees and chasing squirrels. 😂😂 

Worship

Churches were closed for a time and moved their sermons online and, hence, discovered new opportunities with a wider audience to preach to. However, I must say that I much prefer to meet together for church services than to listen online. That's why when drive-in church services were allowed, Adrian and I really enjoyed going to them. 

Crafting and DIY

When Isaac was furloughed from work in the first lockdown, him and I got some painting done. That and new blinds helped to cheer the house up a bit. Also, I enjoyed crocheting Ireland, even though, I haven't found a use for it yet. That's it on a king size bed in the photo below. Ah well, I suppose I will have it as a memory of 2020 lockdown. 

Staycation

Staying local, rather than taking vacations abroad was maybe more the done thing in 2020 because of the uncertainty of travel regulations. So, when restrictions eased a little after the first lockdown, Adrian and I chose day trips for our staycation instead of staying away in a hotel or B&B. Portrush, Newcastle, Bangor, Scrabo and Hillsborough park all made lovely day trips. Walking, rather than shopping, was always our focus on these days out. And there's always a first time for everything. For me, in Sept 2020, it was the first time I walked all the way along the East Strand in Portrush to the White Rocks and back again. 

Family

Isaac finished a personal training course and truly is passionate about training people in fitness. Well done to him! 

Jemima turned 25 years old in June and Bridie turned 2 years old in June. 

Both Adrian's mum and my Mum went to live in care homes shortly before the pandemic broke. This gave peace of mind that they were being kept safe and well cared for. Thankfully both have tested negative for coronavirus. The care homes have worked hard to try to keep the virus out. That has meant great restrictions on visits in controlled setups, with masks and social distancing, and even some window visits. Thankfully, I have been able to visit mum several times. Sadly, Adrian has not been able to visit his mum since end January /beginning of February 2020.

But one of the most special highlights of 2020 was Jemima and Josh getting engaged. The excitement of wedding plans are a delight. We are so looking forward to their big day! 

Conclusion

So, as we said goodbye to 2020, 

1. I can look back and remember some good times, family times, precious memories, despite all the difficulties and restrictions. 
2. I am truly grateful to the Lord for everything He has done for us. We have not starved nor wanted for any good thing. 
3. My heart goes out to all the families who had empty chairs and tear-stained pillows at Christmastime because of losing loved ones. 
4. It has never ceased to amaze me at how politicians and other leaders have stumbled through the pandemic, doing the best they can, but not bringing God into the equation. 
5. I think, as we leave 2020, we have plenty to pray to God about. 

Remember, the conditional promise that God has given to His people:

"If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." 2 Chronicles 7v14

Despite all the negatives because of restrictions in 2020, may 2021 blossom with positives to glorify God. Best wishes and keep safe!

When the lights went out

Last night (or should I say early morning) I went to my computer with this text etched on my mind to prepare a picture text to upload to Facebook. It seemed a random text as I hadn't been reading or studying it but well it must be meant for someone. I believe these words of Jesus to Peter can be applied to God's people and maybe you are that someone who needs it today.

Shortly after uploading, boom, my computer just stopped without any warning. The screen was black. I immediately thought: ah no, that's bad for my computer; or has it just crocked it? Then, I suddenly realized it is dark all around me. The lights were out and it was pitch dark. I really could see nothing. It was weird because, as anyone who lives in the town knows, even when the the house lights go out, the street lights still show light into the home.

But here's my quick chain of thought as I dealt with it (I cannot write as quickly as I thought):

It is not Jesus coming back for He will come in clouds with great glory and with a mighty shout. It is not hell for there is no fire or shrieks of the eternally lost souls. Ah, the lights must have tripped so I felt around the table for my phone. The light from the screen showed me my way for the short time it stayed on. But how will I make Adrian's lunch with that stopping every minute? I really need to make him lunch as restaurants are shut because of coronavirus restrictions. 

So, with the aid of my phone screen light I searched for a torch but the couple I found didn't work. Then, it suddenly dawned on me that there was a torch on my phone! Silly me. So, Adrian's lunch was made under torch light 😃 Then, off to bed for there was no point sitting up.

However, in the middle of all this, I stepped outside and saw that the street lights were out, too. In the darkness I lifted my eyes up to heaven and saw the beauty of the stars twinkling. What a beautiful glimmer of hope provided by the Creator!

So what's my point in all this? Why am I rambling on? Well, let's read the full text first:

"And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: but I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren."

Luke 22v31-32

Satan wanted to destroy Simon Peter's life so that he would not do great exploits for God BUT Jesus prayed for Peter. That made all the difference. Yes, Jesus is God and He knew exactly how Peter was feeling and all he was struggling with. God had purpose for Peter's life but he needed strong faith. So, Jesus prayed that Peter's faith would not fail. After this Peter denied the Lord 3 times with oaths and cursing but he repented with bitter tears and 3 times affirmed his love for the Lord. His faith had faltered but did not fail. Later Peter would be the one who would strengthen his brothers in Christ.

Today you may be feeling great pressure upon your faith in God. Perhaps this lockdown and isolation from friends and church has caused you to doubt, question or despair of your faith in Christ. Maybe the Bible is not as precious to you as it used to be. You are crying for help and the temptation is to give up on your faith. Satan would love to destroy you and make you a failure BUT remember Jesus is praying for you in heaven (Romans 8v34; Hebrew 7v25). His prayers cannot fail. He has purpose for your life.

In conclusion, I hope these points will be helpful:

1. Just as the stars seem to shine brightest in the darkest night, so you can shine in the darkness  that you are experiencing at this time.
2. The Lord Jesus understands and cares about you in all your struggles and you can trust His praying for you, so leave your life in His hands. 
3. Your faith may falter but it will not fail when Jesus is praying for you.
4. God will give you the privilege of fulfilling the purpose He has for you after your faith is strengthened.

It is amazing how it took the lights to go out to switch me on to what God was saying. May these few scattered thoughts be a blessing to you.

Questions in Lockdown

We have been living with restrictions to our daily lives because of coronavirus and of course we are all looking forward to the time when things can get back to normal. What the new normal will be I just do not know but I have put together a few thought provoking questions to help us think about how we can make the most of our time in lockdown and benefit from it. Here they are:

1. How are you using this time in lockdown to evaluate what matters in life?

Yes, you may have less stress from running in the rat race of life and there may be less pollution in the air but have you been rediscovering the little things that matter in life? Has spending time with your family cooking, painting, gardening, reading, listening to music and online info, etc. given you a new appreciation of family life? What precious times do you plan to continue after lockdown? Will you view your employment differently when all this is over? What and who will you value more?

2. What are you doing to benefit your spiritual, physical and mental health?

Yes, you need proper rest, good diet, and exercise. Perhaps you have been spending time on your hobbies and even DIY jobs around the house. These are all very beneficial for your well-being but do not forget to take time out for God. Also, remember to share the load of household chores and if you are struggling with home educating your children, make sure to take time out for yourself.

3. If you believe in God, do you turn to HIM first with all your heart in this crisis?

Yes, it is good to heed the advice of the experts and follow the government's guidelines for keeping safe. But perhaps as you listen to all the media reports your heart is filled with worry and fear.

Remember, Jesus said: "Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in Me." (John 14v1)

"Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths." (Proverbs 3v5+6) 

Trust the Lord in the crisis and trust Him to solve it, even though we may have many questions about why it is happening.

4. If you believe God answers prayer, are you trusting God to answer prayer?

There are so many things to pray for: Those suffering and bereaved, world leaders, church leaders, medical staff, key workers, wisdom and healing, and much, much more. Pray people will turn to God through this pandemic. However, it is so easy to say prayers that are really only from the lips and not from the heart. Trust God with all your heart to answer prayer.

Jesus said, "Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them." (Mark 11v24)

5. If you believe the 10 commandments are God's moral rule for our lives, what are you doing to keep them during lockdown?

I suggest that you get your Bible out and go down each commandment as found in Exodus 20v3-17, carefully considering how you can  keep these commandments during lockdown. Don't forget to consider how your time on the internet and social media relates to them. Don't forget your heart attitude as well. I think if we are honest we all fail to keep the 10 commandments perfectly.

6. If you are a Christian, how are you practising Christ's command to love thy neighbour as thyself?

Jesus taught that we are to love God first and that we are to love our neighbour as ourselves (Matthew 22v37-39). Our neighbour is not just the person who lives next door but other people too. You may not be able to get out during lockdown and isolation but that doesn't mean you cannot keep in touch with and care for others. A little text or phone call may be all it takes to encourage and help others. Praise God for social media and all the benefits of modern technology. Of course, you may even be able to bring essentials to those who cannot go out. Perhaps you know someone vulnerable or in danger??

7. How are you making use of all the volume of good material and sermons online?

Now that the churches are closed, it would be so easy to forget about listening to sermons and just let Sunday pass as any other day. However, most churches are providing teaching for adults and children by various means online. In fact, I have never seen my Facebook newsfeed so filled with good sermons, children's talks, helpful blogs, hymns and gospels songs. Research these for yourself.

8. Are you thankful?

The Bible tells us, "In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you." (1 Thessalonians 5v18)

Be thankful for your blessings, food to eat, and lovely weather. Just imagine what lockdown would be like inside in the cold and wet! I am so thankful for being able to enjoy the sunshine in my back garden. Praise God for answered prayer and for all those who recovered.

9. Are you hopeful?

Yes, we hope it will end soon. Hope for vaccine/cure. But the Bible talks about the living hope we have through Christ. Read 1 Peter 1v3-5. This is not just some hope for the best, maybe it will happen by chance idea. No, this Biblical hope is steadfast, as if we already had it. Do you possess that living hope and strong assurance of faith?


By considering all these questions honestly and privately, I hope they will help you to decide how you will come out of lockdown a better and stronger person.

Please do not send me answers to these questions as they are not a test. I do not pretend to have all the answers right in my own life but I just offer the above questions to you for careful contemplation.

Love God and stay safe!
Rhonda