Jeff Finley For some of us, it may be hard to see God’s grace right now. At least one member of this
group has been laid off because of the coronavirus pandemic, and another currently is hospitalized.
I know two Free Methodists who have died of COVID-19: one a beloved pastor and the other a
faithful member of my local church who was retired from the World Ministries Center. Yet, according
to Psalm 23:4, “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me;
your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” How have you seen God’s unstoppable grace at work in
the midst of illness, stay-at-home orders and closed church buildings?
Sarah Chadwick Anderson We’ve had increasing numbers of people with time online discovering our
messages in Hungarian and English. God has helped all our church people to use these moments for
redemptive conversations and prayer with new friends and regular attendees who are looking for ways
to process all that is happening ... and giving powerful testimonies of trusting God with an unknown
tomorrow!
Micheal W. Blackford Small churches have been forced to learn and use online technology to keep in
touch and provide teaching to their families. I think that is a good thing. The message of the Bible is
flooding the internet. Pastors are praying for and sharing with us every day, not just on Sunday.
Pam Taylor Cowart There is so much good news in the midst of horrible news. Keith led a family member
to the Lord while he was quarantined! He also said he has had more contact with superintendents and
area directors in the last 3-4 weeks than he has had yet! When everyone’s perspective has shifted, there
is room for God’s vision and voice to be heard more clearly. Our family is having great discussions and
heart changes in the midst of it all. Our neighbors have our contact information and offers of help. We
are getting to know them even better from a distance than we did before!
Stacey Britton It is good to grieve deeply and honestly, for in doing this we honor what was as well as
prepare for what is and what will be.
Merry Kendall I think we can see that God was way out ahead of us by preparing us with all kinds of
technology to make sure we stay connected. We can see each other through video; we can order
groceries online; we have all kinds of entertainment on our TVs; etc.
Lois Kiger There is evidence of Psalm 23:4 all around us. “And the peace of God, which transcends all
understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:7). God is definitely
in the midst of our troubles. Many people are hearing God’s Word from pastors and individuals via
Facebook, messaging, email, Zoom meetings, FaceTime phone calls, etc. People are showing kindness
by checking on neighbors and church family, and showing compassion to health care workers and the
elderly in creative ways. Most importantly, there is plenty of time to seek God by reading the Bible and
praying with our family.
May 2020 — pg. 19