One positive learned from the pandemic is that we can accomplish what we thought we were never going to be able to do. Mainly, many adults were afraid of venturing out on cell phones and computers. I think security was the main fear. The most complicated feat tried on the cell phone or the computer can be done by a thirteen-year-old, some even younger.

We ask ourselves how is that possible? They are not afraid to make a mistake and we are. If they make a mistake, there are few negative consequences. After all, they do not have to repair it or pay for it. So, they are not afraid to experiment, thus learning afterward.

During the pandemic, we had no choice but to experiment. We were afraid to get sick and die if we socialized, afraid we were going to be evicted if we did not pay our bills on time, and yes afraid to not be able to seek medical attention. Thus, online skills were learned. Some have even gotten good at it.

When some churches began to close their doors because the members came to the conclusion that church folk died as well as unchurched, something had to be done about it. Lively-hoods would be lost and some would truly miss the fellowship. Something had to be done quickly. The churches that did not adapt folded. Some never re-opened.

This is why diversity is so important. We have to include all ages in our congregations. That includes crying babies, children, and youth services. The same media that was used to socialize before the pandemic was easy to adapt. As the joke goes, “The same folk.”

Four years later, Institutions have changed the way “church” is done. Many believers have become accustomed to churches without pews, sanctuaries without hymn books, and message outlines and songs projected onto large screens. You are encouraged to use your wireless device. This dispels the notion that you are doing otherwise.

Some have also recognized the need to change their methods of reaching out to non-Christians with the gospel of Jesus Christ. There is nothing wrong with that per se. However, we were created to be social beings; including introverts.

Who do you reach out to when they are off the air. I believe that you can not be a Christian by yourself. This good feeling I want to share and make it known to others. Tell them about my prior struggles before I came to Him, just as I was, weary, wounded, and sad.

Not everything is changing, however. Dr. M. R. De Haan wrote in the first edition of Our Daily Bread in 1956: “If there is one thing Paul insisted upon, it is that works have nothing to do with obtaining or retaining our salvation. We are justified by faith, and faith alone” (Romans 4:5; 5:1).

Modes and methods of worship may change. But salvation is through faith in Jesus alone. That will never change.