He cares for us much more

David Jones on how our buildings may be closed but the work of the church goes on

DURING lockdown many churches have been uploading services on social media with views far exceeding the numbers who normally attend services.

I have ministerial friends in the UK and abroad who are viewing our services as I have been able to view theirs.

What an added joy it’s been to have messages from those from Llanelli and other parts of Wales, some the other side of the world, and joining in worship often with tears and not a little ‘hiraeth’ especially as they hear the hymns of their homeland.

These increased numbers were affirmed in last month’s edition of ‘Christianity’ magazine which also reported that Bible sales in the UK have increased by 55% and while normally only 6% of the population attend church, 25% have viewed a church service since the lockdown began with one in 20 who have never prayed experiencing the real blessing and peace which prayer brings.

Our buildings may be closed but the work and mission of the church goes on.

In so many ways technology has changed all our lives. Working from home has meant job security for many. Zoom, the means of seeing and sharing together, has compensated for not being able to meet or hug our loved ones.

The world of entertainment has brought blockbuster films to our living rooms and where would we be without email?

There are, however, far more valuable means of communication we may have taken for granted. Neighbours have become friends with acts of kindness and concern being willingly given. I’ve heard of deep family divides being healed as the fragility of life has brought the realisation that one day it may well be too late to make amends.

I suppose then it’s up to us as to what happens as the lockdown eases. Do we return to the normal humdrum of life or will we have learned what is really important for ourselves and future generations?

Jesus once told his followers to look at the birds of the air and the lilies of the field.

If God, he said, cares so wonderfully for flowers that are here today and gone tomorrow – how much more he cares for us.

Jesus also spoke of his Kingdom that has no walls, no divisions, no winners, no losers.

It calls us to unity of mind and purpose – to communicate the message of love, compassion and care for each other and to leave the rest to God.