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It seems strange to be addressing this topic at the beginning of the 3rd year into this pandemic. In some ways for us in WA, the pandemic is only just beginning, although the separation from family and friends beyond our borders has been very real. We have a number of people in our church (not to mention our natural families) who fall into the vulnerable category due to age or ill health, and we are keen to make sure we do all we can to protect them. At the same time, the needs of the spiritually and emotionally vulnerable also need to be taken into account.

On Sunday, just prior to the current indefinite mask mandate being announced, I talked about our response as a church to the pandemic, and I think it's worth including them here for all those who missed it. 

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In some circles of Christ’s church there has been a strong reaction to the government response to Covid, and it’s important to take a moment to talk about this.

I think it would be fair to say most people in the community support the government’s stance and a very strong minority oppose it. There are probably a number of views in our church and to be honest, I’m not comfortable with everything the government is doing, but I also believe the government is trying to do its best. 

In that light, Romans 13.1 says, “Let everyone submit to the governing authorities, since there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are instituted by God.” 

The Church Council has discussed this (and continues to do so). Our church policy is to comply with government health orders as long as they don’t conflict with the gospel. I’m really grateful that the government is making it easy for us to do that at the moment.

My observation is that fear is driving much of the reaction on all sides. Fear of the virus. Fear of the unknown. Fear of losing an election. Sadly, in some church circles, conspiracy-driven fear.

It’s important as God’s people that we don’t let fear drive our response. Of course, we should be responsible and careful, but we should not be driven by irrational fear as so many are. It’s ironic that Christians are often mocked for our faith but it’s that faith that enables us to respond rationally. 

1Tim 1.7 says “God has not given us a spirit of fear but one of power, love and sound judgment.”

Psa. 27.1 says, “The LORD is my light and my salvation—whom should I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life—whom should I dread?”

Psalm 91.5-6 says, “You will not fear the terror of the night, the arrow that flies by day, the plague that stalks in darkness, or the pestilence that ravages at noon.”

More than that, Jesus said that, as his disciples, we are to love one another and to “Love your neighbour as yourself.” A godly response is one of love. That doesn’t mean we’ll agree about the best way forward, but it does mean we start with consideration for the other person or group. And it means loving those with whom I disagree on this issue, even when we disagree strongly. 

I’m grateful this hasn’t been a divisive issue in our church, and as we go about our business and talk to people, I hope we may continue to do so as a people of faith and love.