I, with great appreciation for all the people, departments and organisations involved in helping the community and society during this crisis, would like to address the government’s decision to shut down religious places completely except what they termed essential commodities like government offices, medical assistance, commercial vehicles, etc.
I believe the church leaders should be encouraged even more during this crisis to gather and intercede for the people whilst maintaining the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) given. Therefore, I humbly appeal to the concerned government leaders not to shut down churches completely, both now and in the days ahead.
As a Christian state, churches are praying unceasingly and doing their best to help people behind the scenes, having the same need and burden or even more as those who are working hard in giving their best for the welfare of the society and community. The church is essential because the church has always played a big role not just spiritually but also generally in standing together with the government in giving, helping the needy, in building relationships and bringing hope, help and healing to the people which has prevented a lot of misunderstandings, fights and also helped people personally in overcoming addictions, detrimental habits, depressions, suicidal thoughts, etc.
I do not disagree with the need of the use of masks, vaccines and necessary procedures directed by the concerned authorities. However, we are all aware that these natural things alone cannot sustain us. Our trust in the Almighty God should come first and foremost. And to my fellow servants of God, let us not put aside or take for granted the importance of coming to church as a place for fellowship and prayer as how the Lord Jesus Christ has taught us.
“…Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain.”
Psalm 127:1b ESV
In His Service,
David Yashu, Pastor, C. R. Mission Church, Kohima