Adept to Adapt

Talk about a crazy weekend! Life, by definition, is unusual, but the past few days have had a different vibe. Schools closing indefinitely, major league baseball running for the hills, toilet paper being sold by the kilo; what’s happening? It all feels like a dream or a nightmare! I’m not sure; it’s too early to tell.

There’s nothing like a worldwide pandemic to put change in action. Who knows what the world will look like when this thing blows over, but I don’t think it will be the same world we left behind? How many days does it take to form a habit? Nothing will come out unscathed. Even the local watering holes are being forced to rethink their marketing strategy (do they even know what that is)!

As a church leader, I’m nervously excited to see what the future holds. It’s been interesting to observe the initial responses in the American Church to the Coronavirus. Some have opted to push forward with business as usual while others have drastically changed course. I see the pro’s and con’s in both sides and pray for wisdom as we all navigate these uncharted waters.

Here’s what I do know for sure: the Church is adept to adapt. So much so that in the face of significant trials, the Church historically has prospered. It’s in the seasons of plenty that She’s struggled. Even as a pastor, God has a difficult time getting my attention when there is property and programs to manage.

Take that away and what do we have anyway?

The Church. The movement of God to bring about His purposes on earth. Gatherings are amazing and healthy, but the Church is about scattering not gathering. It’s something we’re called to Be not attend. Because the Church is a movement, She will always be adept to adapt especially in a shifting climate. It’s what the Church is designed to do.

I’m all for social distancing if it helps to save lives and flatten the curve but social disconnection, not so much. There are opportunities in our midst to Be the Church and lead with wisdom and compassion. We have an opportunity to show the world that Christ-followers aren’t just about music and messages. We’re capable of actionable faith not just running our mouths about politics and problems.

The Church will come out of the Coronavirus Pandemic 2020 much stronger. Challenges are always the fertile soil in which She thrives. I will be so excited when the Texas Rangers take the field and toilet paper abounds. I’ll be even more excited to gather with other Christ-followers and worship our Great God corporately. But God help me to not miss the opportunity that’s in the middle. The Church is adept to adapt and I’m excited for the ride.