I find myself being somewhat grateful for the Internet so at least we can hear and see our pastor's teaching remotely. However, our gratefulness for technology only shows just how desperately we Christians also needs fellowship. There is something special about gathering together that makes Good Friday more reflective and penitent.
When worshiping with my brothers and sisters I have the opportunity to look around and see the pain and suffering on their faces when they hear the story of the crucifixion. They clearly feel the same as I do - sad, remorseful, alone.
That's how I imagine the disciples felt the night Jesus died. Alone. Jesus felt alone as well when His loyal followers all took off and left Him hanging there. Literally.
Times of sorrow, like someone's death, are times when we need family and friends. They mourn with us. They comfort us. And that's what I think was missing this past Friday. The togetherness of family.
Look at the persecuted church in the Book of Acts. They still met. The present-day church in China is another example. Despite a government crack down on religion, they still meet anyway. Why? Because it is part of who we are as Christians - that gathering together of the outcast underdogs.
One day this virus will have run its course and we can all attend worship together again. It is likely that things will return to normal but I kind of hope it doesn't. We are blessed to be able to worship together and I hope none of us takes that freedom for granted again. It is truly priceless.
"Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. 24 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, 25 not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching." - Hebrews 10:23-25
We Gather Together Hymn
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