Maqsood Kamil, a graduated LeaderStudies recipient serving in Pakistan, shares the following message in the context of COVID-19 & Easter:
As the world is under the grip of great anxiety and fear of possible death, I greet you with the shalom of Christ, our crucified and the risen Lord. In this very troublesome time, Christ is speaking to us directly, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. Believe in God, believe also in me” (John 14:1). Trust in God the Father who loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, and trust in the Son who willingly died our death on the cross and then conquered death and grave. He is our anchor of peace/shalom in the troubled sea of Covid-19 pandemic.
Christ gave this incredible promise to his dismayed and sorrowful disciples, “… because I live, you also will live” (John 14:19b). In verse 6, in response to Thomas’ question, Jesus made one of the most precious and profound revelations about his person, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life.” Christ did not only came back to life and is alive, he is “LIFE.” He alone has the power to give life and keep us alive in the face of death. Christ repeats John 14:1 again with with some important addition: “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your heats be troubled, and do not let them be afraid” (John 14:27). The peace/shalom of Christ given to us has the power to calm our troubled hearts and also banish all fears from our hearts.
Friends, life in Christ is stronger than death in this world. Let us take hold of the promises of our Lord so that the peace of Christ that passes all understanding may fill our hearts and minds. Let us pass the peace of Christ to our family, friends, and neighbours. Let us also take all necessary precautions to protect ourselves and our neighbours, which may include self-quarantining for the time being not only to protect ourselves but more importantly to protect all others. It also includes sharing our material blessings with needy neighbours. This is a small part of obeying our Lord’s command, “Love your neighbours as you love yourself.”
I and my family are earnestly praying for your shalom. You are constantly in our thoughts and minds. May the peace of Christ be with you and in you forevermore.
With loads of love,
Maqsood Kamil