Pastor Chris’ Corona Quarantine Epistles to the Flock of AIC Ngong Road, in Dispersion and Isolation. 4th Edition.
Dear brothers and sisters,
Today marks my fourth day of isolation. Some of you have wondered why yesterday was the third edition of the CQE, yet the first was apparently on Monday. The first edition was actually on Sunday when I entered quarantine and sent you the first message. I christened the messages CQE on Monday, but Sunday marks the first. So, welcome to the Corona Quarantine Epistles, 4th edition.
Yesterday, we looked at Psalm 121:3-4, in which we saw the protective wakefulness of our God. Today we look at the first part of verse 5, “The Lord is your keeper.” This evokes several images. The first is that of a shepherd. The Middle Eastern shepherd is unique in that he has a close, fatherly relationship with the sheep. He puts his life in danger, when necessary, to protect his sheep.
The second image is that of a steward. Entrusted with the property of another, the steward manages it to ensure not only security but growth as well (remember the Parable of the Talents?). With God as our keeper, stagnation is not an option.
The third image is that of a guard at the gate. The guard screens prospective entrants, allowing in only those that are not a threat to the residents.
These three images reinforce the promise that God is “Ritho”. He will ensure that no harm comes to his own. But it goes a little further than that and assures us also of progress, or as some have put it, prosperity. This prosperity is not necessarily material, although that is part of it, but more expansive, encompassing physical, mental, emotional, and social health; family unity and the well-being of children; and status in society.
In this crisis, let us put our trust in our God and expect from him the results of having the “Good Shepherd” as our keeper.
Join me tomorrow for the 5th. Edition.
Your loving pastor, Chris.
Categories