The Global Pandemic May Act As The Catalyst For Fundamental Change In SA!

We live in unprecedented times. The world is changing before our very eyes. Almost every nation across the globe is in some form of lockdown. Billions of people are isolated and confined to their homes. Fear is widespread as social and economic uncertainty persists.
 
Tuesday 14 April 2020 marks day 19 of the extended 35 days of national lockdown. Thankfully, South Africa appears to have bucked the global trend. Confirmed Covid 19 infections stand at 2173 with 25 deaths. Compared to countries like the US, Italy, Spain, the UK and others, South Africa seems to have avoided a major outbreak with high fatality rates.
 
Although we are living in uncertain times, it’s not all bad news. Reports indicate millions of people across the world are seeking spiritual guidance. The sales of Bibles have skyrocketed and online Church services are experiencing record log ins. So the good news is - the Good News is in huge demand.
 
Many agree, it is no coincidence that Passover/Easter falls in the midst of this global pandemic. For the first time since the actual Passover in Egypt, families were confined to their homes to avoid a plague. The lockdown emphasises the true value of family worship and devotions while directing our attention to the Blood of the Lamb as our real refuge in times of calamity.
 
With commerce, education, travel, sporting events, entertainment and many other social activities strictly prohibited, hundreds of millions of people are less distracted and compelled to reflect on what really matters in life. 
 
God, marriage and family comes out tops every time. The peace and security of knowing and communing with the living God, the unique companionship and intimacy of marriage and the joy and sense of belonging of the family stand out as the most fulfilling and meaningful of human experiences.
 
I take great comfort in knowing God is in complete control of His creation. He works all things in accordance with His perfect will. The world is on pause at the moment. But once this pandemic passes, it will be a different place. The way we did things will change forever.
 
For example, the Christian Church’s over-reliance on the comforts and grandeur of buildings is being re-evaluated. Millions of Christians suddenly discovered the Church is not a weekly event nor is it a building. 
 
The central message of the Great Commission is, “Go and make disciples of all nations.” Sadly, there is not much “Going”, as Church buildings morphed into insular places of fellowship and entertainment for overfed believers who have become too comfortable to venture out.
 
Tens of millions of non-believers are now being exposed to the Gospel as Pastors - and more surprisingly, ordinary Christians - discover innovative ways to share their faith. From powerful online presentations to drive-in Church to creative outreach initiatives – the true Church of Christ is currently being compelled to Go - and are finding exciting and unprecedented ways to do it.
 
The global lockdown has not only forced the Church to find innovative ways to reach the lost, it also compels government, business, education, health and media to find alternatives ways to operate. And when this crisis ends, these new ways of doing things will become the norm.
 
South Africa too is undergoing fundamental change. What appears like doom and gloom will actually turn out for the nations good. This crisis will act as the catalyst for fundamental change. The Covid 19 crisis has placed President Cyril Ramaphosa in the strongest position he will ever be to act decisively.
 
Most of you are familiar with 2 Chronicles 7:14. However, verse 13 actually sets the context, (13) “If I shut up the heavens so that there is no rain, or if I command the locust to devour the land (happening now in East Africa), or if I send pestilence (pandemic) among My people, (14) If My people, who are called by My name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and turn from their wicked ways; then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” 
 
The Lord God clearly commands His people to stand in the gap for the nation. It starts with humbling ourselves before God followed by fervent prayer and repentance. Only then will God hear from heaven, forgive our sin and heal our land.

This is Good News because God always keeps His promise. If you were wondering what to do during this lockdown – stand in the gap for SA. God is faithful.
 
Standing
 
Errol Naidoo