The last 18 months has seen much change. Tragically, lives have been lost, businesses closed, jobs suspended, and everybody confined to one degree or another. Add to that, disagreement over needed solutions and what were otherwise healthy relationships have become strained.
That is not to say that everyone has had a bad time of it. Some companies have done very well. No commentary is needed on the success of online trading for old and new companies alike.
Looking back, the 2020 Lockdowns cost the average congregation 20% of its attendance. Looking forward, it may yet be months before we ascertain losses from subsequent Lockdowns.
The church is at a crossroads: “Where from here?”
Some churches are back in their church buildings while others are half-full or still locked out. Online worship has become widespread, with members interacting on various chat options. Many are making the most of their confined circumstances.
Most, as previously, will joyfully return to their usual places of worship, but some will join the formerly lost 20 percent.
These are times of testing. That’s what happens at a crossroads: you are forced to make up your mind as to “Where from here?”
Years ago, one of my kids came home from primary school with an assignment. She was asked to imagine going on a trip to a faraway place, but only able to take what could fit into her school bag. I mentioned her assignment in that week’s sermon and was amazed to watch as some of the adult minds tried to decide what to take or leave behind.
Christians are going to have to leave some things unpacked for the road ahead. The first being those “frustrations over decisions that have inconvenienced their lives.” Be assured that anything useful that is packed around that mess may as well be considered broken before you start.
Where from here? I have no doubt in my mind that God expects His church to come out of this stronger and wiser. We will do what the church does best: We will regroup, rejoice, and repair.
John Staige
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