by Mark Mayberry
Synopsis: Looking back at the last three months, Mark describes how the Adoue Street elders have tried to meet the needs of the local congregation during the recent shutdown.
While acknowledging “there is nothing new under the sun” (Eccl. 1:9), never before (in our lifetimes) have the people of God been impacted by a health crisis of this magnitude. As a result of the “stay-at-home” mandates issued by governments around the world, brethren have struggled with challenges involving our ability to assemble and worship. This occurred on a scale that would have been previously unimaginable.
While some mandates may seem excessive (at least in hindsight), I believe most governments intended to help, not hurt—to save lives, not persecute believers. Of course, there are exceptions. Progressive “do-gooders,” who encourage tolerance toward deviant behavior, often fail to practice the same when it comes to those who seek to follow biblical principles. Here in Texas, on a state and local basis, our civil leaders sought to accommodate the essential activity of worship. Accordingly, most brethren attempted to comply with government requirements regarding social distancing, and limitations on the number of persons who could assemble. As a result, brethren have been forced to make other arrangements for worship and Bible study.
On a personal level, the last two months have been an emotional rollercoaster. Not only have I been concerned about the health of my immediate family, but the burden of spiritual leadership has weighed heavily upon the shoulders of our local eldership, of which I am a part. Along with Darin Henry and Paul Linden, I am blessed to serve as an elder of the Adoue Street Church of Christ in Alvin, TX.
In our position as overseers, we try to do what is right in the sight of God, and what is best for the congregation. To this end, we have had to weigh a variety of factors that sometimes conflicted with one another: the physical and spiritual health of the members. John said, “Beloved, I pray that in all respects, you may prosper and be in good health, just as your soul prospers” (3 John 2).
We must balance the differing demographics of our membership. Many are young and healthy—resilient to disease. Others are aged and frail—highly susceptible to the threat of COVID-19.
We have to consider the “fear factor” of the congregation. Some appear confident; others are very concerned about the health and well-being of their families. Some go to work daily; others have self-quarantined, venturing out into public only when necessary. Some have struggled spiritually; others have faced the present crisis with serenity.
Darin, Paul, and I have spent many hours pondering what is best, planning ways we could assemble and worship. As the circumstances and mandates have changed, we met indoors in separate assemblies, outdoors (in the sunshine and the rain), and finally, last week were all able to worship together, while complying with the requirements issued by the Governor of Texas.
It was such a relief—and such an occasion for rejoicing— when we could all be together, even if social distancing requirements limited our interaction.
Brethren around the world have struggled with the same challenges. Some have faced stricter requirements than did we. Some are not able to provide for their families. Some have lost their jobs. Some are facing hunger. Some had contracted the coronavirus, with severe and life-threatening consequences. Some have died.
Yet, through it all, we are people of faith. We trust in God during good times and bad. Like the apostle Paul, faithful Christians learn contentment:
Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me (Phil. 4:11-13).
Before closing, I want to share a handwritten note, from a family in our congregation, addressed to the Alvin elders. We were greatly encouraged to read these words of commendation, and I share it (hesitantly) by expanding its focus, and saying to all spiritual leaders throughout the brotherhood, THANK YOU!
Dear Mark, Paul, and Darin, THANK YOU! The burden of leadership is at times heavy. We see your diligence in shepherding our flock through this challenging time, balancing many interests to find opportunities to bring us together. Above all, we see our devotion to God’s word and design for His church. Our family is thankful for your service. We offer you our support in any way needed, and more so, we remember you constantly in our prayers to our loving Father, who can provide you greater wisdom than any of us.
Ultimately the reward of your leadership is great, for you and for us. May your diligence and devotion remain strong. May you find joy in your service. May you have honor from us all. May you stand confident with us on that day we all give account and receive the reward. May God bless you and your wives. Thank you. With Love, NAME WITHHELD.
Author Bio: Mark and Sherelyn have labored with the Adoue Street church of Christ in Alvin, TX since 1998, where he serves as the evangelist and an elder. The church website is ascoc.org. His Bible study website is markmayberry.net. He can be reached at mark@truthpublications.com.
