“Gathering Together” in Creative Ways When We Can’t Be Physically Present with One Another
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Gathering together. For many, that may not be possible or wise for some time. As governments around the world recommend and even order social distancing and staying home in order to slow the spread of the coronavirus pandemic, the normal ways Christians join in fellowship with one another have changed for the time being, but that means now is the time to be sure to gather together in other ways.
It’s critical to stay in touch with one another for spiritual support, as well as for helping with practical problems. Here are some ways to “gather together” when we can’t be physically present with one another:
First and foremost, pastors, elders, and deacons should “pound the phones.”
We are used to being in touch with one another on Sunday for worship or other Bible studies and fellowship events. But when that is not possible, the phone is the next best thing. Reaching out to every member of a church with an occasional phone call helps in a number of ways:
Uncovering and helping to meet needs, whether it’s running an errand, sharing things that are in short supply, or simply helping to fix other possible problems.
Getting a sense of the spiritual and emotional state of members while offering empathy, encouragement, and prayer at that moment.
Making sure members are aware of both critical and practical advice, guidance, and initiatives in order to help one another.
Staying connected to our church family, as we are God’s adopted children, brothers and sisters in Christ.
Second, be grateful for and utilize technology that can facilitate staying close during times like this.
Of course, nothing should permanently replace the physical gathering together of God’s people; but as a temporary measure, technology can help bind us together when in-person gathering may not be possible. Technologies like these can be used in both large and small group settings:
When calling someone consider using video features, such as FaceTime.
Use free conference calling services, such as FreeConferenceCall.com.
Use free video conference calling applications, such as Zoom.
Livestream worship, prayer, sermons, and teaching.
Make more phone calls. Call your family, friends, members of your Bible study groups, members of your small fellowship and discipleship groups. Like the old telephone commercial encouraged, “Reach out and touch someone.”
Occasional emails, Facebook postings, and other social media may be useful for keeping the church and friends up to date, short devotionals, and disseminating prayer needs. When people are unable to meet in person to hear these things, email and social media are easy ways to fill the gap.
As the writer of Hebrews counsels,
Let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. (Heb. 10:24-25)
Now is especially the time to help ensure we remain close as a body, even when unable to be physically present with one another. So gather together by phone, technology, and social media in order to care for each other and to encourage and pray for one another as God’s beloved children.
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