As I think of 2021 I think of the political shift that will take place, the continuing Covid-19 season, the fact that the virus is affecting church attendance and that even though we are reaching new people through our live streaming, the virus has affected our evangelistic efforts. The virus has affected our missionary work. Our people are still dealing with fear and emotional and social fatigue.

Preparing our church for a New Year, we usually look forward with a theme, a verse, a focus and set some aggressive goals. But, this year is going to be different. So, here is what I am reminding our people we should do as we enter this New Year with so many unknowns.

We are not the first group of Christians in the church age to face perilous days. This is not the church’s first Rodeo. We need to keep things in perspective. 2 Timothy 3:1 “This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.” We need to practice the Christian virtues of patience and temperance. 2 Timothy 3:12-13 “Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.” And, we need to continue doing what the Lord has called us to do. 2 Timothy 3:14 “But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them;”

Even though these are difficult days, we should be even more determined to continue on and not just roll over. There is much work to do for the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Let us look for opportunities and let us make opportunities for the Gospel. Hebrews 10:23-25 “Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.”

Jesus is still coming soon. This could be the dawning of that bright and glorious day!!

pastorhouse@bbcmtorab.org