We, in the midst of Corona....

For more than seven For more than seven months now, we have been challenged to find the right protection concept for us as a church. In the process we are making interesting experiences. After each decision, there are individual people who have difficulties. difficult. Some don't want to sign up, others scoff at the the mask requirement. Some are very afraid themselves, others talk about how as Christians are under God's protection anyway and don't need to be afraid of this virus. of this virus.

In all the discussions I became aware that we live in two areas of tension. The first concerns the congregation, which which on the one hand has a spiritual dimension, but then also an earthly institutional. If it were only a spiritual dimension, we could 'spiritualise' the issue and spiritualise' the issue and trust in God without protective measures. If it were only earthly, we would have to keep all the rules very rigidly and meticulously and still be yet be fearful. Our institutional bond is a solid protection concept according to the specifications of the authorities. But because we are a spiritual God's bride, His body, His house, we can know that we are safe in His arms without fear. in His arms.

The second dilemma concerns our personalities. There are very conscientious people who like to have clear rules and keep them. abide by them. Others, on the other hand, give themselves much more 'latitude' in their consciences and interpret the rules very broadly. and interpret the rules very broadly. The solution to this approach in this area of tension is to treat each other with respect and to value our neighbour respect our neighbour more than ourselves.

Personally, I am the kind of person who can of people who can "keep an even score". As one of those responsible for the for the whole system in the midst of all the tensions, it is nevertheless important to me that we subordinate ourselves to the requirements of the authorities. This creates a living space for all, in which we can live with hope and without fear, trusting in our great God. free of fear.

Our motto is: We try to implement the orders of the authorities well, without letting anything be taken away from us, that promotes the spread of the gospel. Our focus is on Jesus and not on the circumstances.