The Best of Times and the Worst of Times

“Be strong, and let your heart take courage,
    all you who wait for the Lord!” Psalm 31:24

In the year 1859, Charles Dickens wrote his infamous novel, A Tale of Two Cities. The first line of the book includes the words. “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.” Focusing on London and Paris, the story centered on the years leading up to the French revolution.

For Christians, we can make the same statement about our current crisis. These are the best of times, these are the worst of times.

The worst of times: Thousands are sick and hundreds are dying from the Coronavirus. Schools and Universities are closed for the foreseeable future. Church sanctuaries are dark on Sundays. Many businesses are shut down. International travel is drastically reduced. And toilet paper is flying off the store shelves! These are uncertain days.

However, as believers we can also see this as the best of times: The church (universal) is having a stronger pursuit of God. The gospel of Jesus is being shared with more intentionality. Many churches (local) are forced to find new creative ways to minister to their flocks and communities. People are more open to discussing spiritual things. The church (universal) is coming together with more unity in Christ.

Rest assured that this Coronavirus did not catch God off guard. He knew it was coming. The question is, will we trust Him in it?

Remember, He is our hope…our only hope. Don’t let the “worst of times” overshadow the “best of times.” Let’s keep our eyes focused on Him and what He wants to see happen during these unique and unprecedented days. He is at work. Watch for Him and be encouraged!

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