May 4

Revisiting the question, "What is God doing in the Covid 19?" it could be easy to come to conclusions based on how we view God Himself.

If we see God as benign and only reactionary, we will see this virus as causing God to feel bad but not be in control. Like a broken vending machine.

If we see God as angry and condemnatory, we will see this virus as an act of God's judgment. Like a grumpy old man.

We're all tired of being home, tired of social distancing, tired of face masks, and tired of unclear directions from our government. "Misery" seems a good descriptor.

All misery is a result of Genesis 3, when sin entered the world and diminished how the world regards God. But it doesn't mean that all misery is a result of individual sins committed by individual people.

Not to say it couldn't be. Read just about anything in 2 Kings and you'll see examples of just that.

However, God's people are not exempt from suffering. Our own personal experiences inform us.

1 Peter 4:17-18 says, "It is time for judgment to begin at the household of God; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God? And, if the righteous is scarcely saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner."

Kind of like, "The rain falls on believer and non-believer alike."

But, Peter is pointing out a foundational difference. For the "ungodly and the sinner" misery is punitive, as it points to the finality of eternal judgment.

But for the redeemed believer, misery is, instead, "purifying."

When we come to Jesus, we are assured that our misery is not the punitive judgment of God on us.

John 5:24b says, "He (you and me) does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life."

So while no longer under the sentence (we deserve) of judgment, we are instead being purified. And like all parents know, purification comes through being on the receiving end of discipline.

Hebrews 12:6-7a says, "For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son (and daughter) whom he receives. It is for discipline that you have to endure. God is treating you as sons (and daughters.)"

It's no lie that many of us who were adapting well a week or two ago are more angry today, fed up with the misery of our circumstances, even our ongoing fears.

But maybe the question to ask is, "What is God doing in me, and still wants to get done in me for the duration of this virus?"

If His discipline of me is to result in my becoming more like Him, I really want to receive it well.

-Mike Rydman, Lead Pastor, Radiant Church | Juneau