I learned 2 days ago of nearby churches that cancelled services due to the Swine Flu.
My first thought was “What kind of a god (small “g” god on purpose because the big “G” God is not intimidated by influenza!) do they worship who is no stronger than a flu virus.” Granted, I do not know the leaders of these churches and cannot critique their motives. My reaction is totally dependent upon my perception of what they might be thinking. Perhaps they have resigned themselves to religious activities rather than true worship of the true God.
Even the Centers for Disease Control released a Press Release for Faith-based organizations and the closest they got to suggesting worship services be cancelled is the quote below.
Evaluate your organization’s usual activities and services (including rites and religious practices if applicable) to identify those that may facilitate virus spread from person to person. Set up policies to modify these activities to prevent the spread of pandemic influenza (e.g. guidance for respiratory hygiene and cough etiquette, and instructions for persons with influenza symptoms to stay home rather than visit in person.)
I feel sorry for churches where the worship of and dependence upon Almighty God has been substituted for religious activity that is just business as usual. One church leader was quoted on WISN.com as saying
The thought is, once churches get past this weekend. It will be business as usual.
Years ago the VeggieTales sang “God is bigger than the Boogie man.” Perhaps a new praise chorus needs to be written “God is bigger than the flu virus.”
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