Today's Reading: 1 Kings 19, Hebrews 8, Acts 5, Psalm 13
A great number of people would also gather from the towns around Jerusalem, bringing the sick and those tormented by unclean spirits, and they were all cured. --Acts 5:16
I got my latest COVID booster yesterday, along with my flu shot. Yes. COVID is back. Actually, it never left. But it is running rampant on our campus, and throughout our state. Students in our ministry have come down with it. But it's different this time. No one is panicking. There weren't long lines at the place where I got my shots. No weeks-long wait for an appointment. I stopped in. Got my shot. And left. Easy. Almost routine. Things have changed, I think, because we have vaccines that work, and medicines that can be used to treat the virus if we get sick. The possibility of healing changes things. Healing was a big part of Jesus' ministry. The apostles continued that work and it drew people to them in large numbers. Christians have continued that healing ministry ever since by founding hospitals and clinics, and addressing human needs of all kinds. Vaccines and medications are healing miracles; gifts from God that come to us through human hands and the brilliant minds of those who develop them. Today, my arms are a little sore, but I am grateful. Now... where did I put my masks?
Peace,
Pastor Mike