THE METROPOLITAN TABERNACLE, LONDON. (Dr. Peter Masters.)
God's Love in a Pandemic
These are momentous days when we find ourselves in the midst of a
worldwide ‘discipline’ or warning from God, calling us to acknowledge
and seek Him. And although we shrink from the thought, this is the
reason for all unexpected catastrophes, whether epidemics, floods or
vast fires. The Bible says these things will come more often in the
‘last days’, when atheism abounds and people generally have no thought
or prayer to their Creator.
A
warning from God is not like the last judgement, because it is an
expression of God’s love, urging people to turn to Him, whereas the last
judgement will finally close the door of mercy for those who turn away
from Him. A warning is not permanent, and God has also given mankind the
skill to control it, eventually. But a warning catastrophe pulls us up
and humbles us, reminding us that we are only people, and that we are in
God’s hands and accountable to Him.
Coronavirus
has certainly shaken us more than any other catastrophe of recent
generations. The relatively gentle approach of our UK scientific elite
soon gave way to radical measures as the virus defied all predictions.
Mighty China shook with alarm; the grim regime of Iran was stunned;
Europe was soon sent scurrying to lock-down, and the all-powerful USA
was brought to cower like everyone else.
As
the pandemic proceeds, significant features become apparent. It is the
elderly (like the writer of this) who are most at risk – those who have
had a lifetime of opportunity to honour their Creator (and may have
refused). The virus seems to say to the younger people – ‘you have some
opportunity left: don’t despise the longsuffering of the Lord.’ Remember
that while God is love, He is also holy and just.
This
may not be the last warning or discipline, although its full
‘indignation’ has not yet unfolded. Christians are praying for relief
and healing for those suffering, and we are witnessing many acts of
kindness among people, but it is vital that we heed the message and
meaning of this pandemic. Its purpose is to call us to forgiveness and
reconciliation with God, by coming to the Saviour, Jesus Christ our
Lord, who has opened a way of salvation by suffering and dying for
sinful people on Calvary’s cross. To trust in Him, repent of sin, and
yield your life to Him, is to receive from Him a new and eternal life.
For your soul’s sake, visit our online video services, or write or email for helpful information:
info@metropolitantabernacle.org
info@metropolitantabernacle.org
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