Easter 2020

Today is Easter Sunday, when Christians all over the world celebrate the resurrection of Jesus from the grave. It is an essential part of the Christian faith, much like Christmas celebrations of Jesus' birth. For people that don't regular attend church, their are often only two times a year they go, Christmas and Easter. Church sanctuaries are usually filled on these dates, except this year.

The shelter-at-home rules are still in place as they have been for over a month. I attended an evening church service on March 8 that concluded with a doctor and county health supervisor saying to be cautious about the coronavirus and advising to limit contact with people. That was the last time most churches in my area had services in their buildings. Since then, it has quickly become the norm to go to YouTube on Sunday morning and watch a message that was recorded a few days earlier. Worship music is also included from singers staying as far apart from each other as possible.

Two days ago was Good Friday. My family, and church congregation, normally go to a late evening service that includes taking of communion, singing and reading about Jesus' crucifixion, and leaving a dark, quiet building. This year was watching the service online, drinking cranberry juice from med cups when prompted, and quietly listening to my church's talented musicians sing.

At this point, some predictions say the United States will start leaving homes and resume regular activities in early May. Others have given dates in early summer, and some say not until November. Whatever the date, I'm fairly confident life as we new it in early March will eventually return. When it does though, what will the church look like?

One conservative Christian commentator I watch predicts people will be even more hesitant to physically attend a service and just opt for online viewing. One friend I talked with said her family is enjoying sitting at home Sunday mornings, in pajamas, and watching sermons and singing. I admit that I somewhat do as well, but it is not church. Sunday worship is not just listening to a sermon, but also fellowship with fellow believers.

At some points in life, including the quad life, worshiping in person isn't always an option. However, speaking from experience, it can quickly become a part you miss and look forward to joining together again. Hopefully that will again become reality, but it could take even longer than other aspects of life.

No matter how we worship, remember Jesus' death and resurrection nearly 2000 years ago. Christians serve a risen Savior that offers a free gift of salvation for all who truly repent of their sins and trust in Him alone. If you haven't done that already, please be sure to do so now, before another day has passed.