Interview Series with Bishop Todd Hunter
(Led by Fr. Kevin Miller)
PART 5 OF 5:
Q: The COVID-19 virus has changed daily life in America (and much of the globe) more than anything in our lifetimes. For a church like ours, what are the dangers of these changes; and what are the opportunities?
Bishop Todd Hunter:
COVID-19 is clearly an unpleasant menace to all of us. The world will be changed in predictable and unpredictable ways by this pandemic. Every human crisis brings both risk/threats and positive opportunities for the Gospel. As this pandemic, economic and social-psychological catastrophe unfolds, and perhaps becomes even more pervasive and broader in its impact, we are all going to wonder, in ever deeper ways: “What does this mean?” “How should the church respond?”
In trying to discern opportunities, I would begin with trying to assess needs that are close to you in the form of named people and named situations—not abstract situations. Beginning in this way may take you to broader, systemic needs, which is fine. Having named some people, assess your gifts, abilities and capacities in relationship to those needs. Jumping into the opportunities for ministry according to your gifts and station in life will give you special, meaningful memories to look back on, and not just the ugliness of this pandemic.
The dangers in this setting, I think, are spiritual and relational.
Spiritual in that it is easy, and normal, to begin to question God. To wonder about suffering. To doubt the goodness of God—maybe even his existence. I’ll never forget the first time I heard the thought from Tom Wright: “How is any Jew supposed to believe in God after the Holocaust?” These huge human events have that sort of effect. The antidote? Saturate, marinate your heart, soul, mind, emotions and will in thoughts about the greatness, goodness, wisdom and completely competent love of God.
Relational, in that a form of xenophobia is growing in the world. Hating China or hating America. Hating Republicans or Democrats or Libertarians. Despising one of the cable news or talk radio outlets. Scorning those who wear masks or those who don’t. This dehumanizing of the other is seeping dangerously into our culture, and in the long-term is a greater threat to us than a virus.
There are many things we don’t know about this pandemic: How long will it last? Will it come back? How vast will the economic ruin be? Those unknowns are enough to make anyone a nervous-Nellie or anxious-Andy. But thankfully there are also some things we know that can walk us through this current minefield:
The Lord is your shepherd. Being in the care of Another means you do not have to live under the tyranny of anxiety.
You are always safe in the kingdom of God. Everything else seems at risk, up for grabs. But God, his rule and reign, are never in doubt. Place your life in God’s kingdom by trusting and following Jesus.
You have the peace of Christ: as Jesus said…
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. (John 14.27)
I’ve told you all this so that trusting me, you will be unshakable and assured, deeply at peace. In this godless world you will continue to experience difficulties. But take heart! I’ve conquered the world. (John 16.33, MSG)
Photo Credit: c4so.org