March … 2020, is a month that all of us would like to have never happened on our calendars. During this time the World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a pandemic—a disease outbreak occurring over a wide geographic area and affecting an exceptionally high proportion of the population

This declared pandemic in the United States brought about deaths, hospitalizations, large public event gatherings cancelled (including church services), schools moving to virtual classrooms, the wearing of personal protective equipment, stay at home orders by politicians, businesses closed, and isolation of many at-risk people.

Certainly, this is not a foreign or distant problem with anyone or for any church congregation. These months have been difficult for everyone in many ways.

March … 2022, over the last few weeks we have been hearing about the “reopening” of many states due to the shutdown of the pandemic. People are beginning to return to a new normal way of life, but they are returning. Returning to work, school, church and recreation. Though it may not be completely over, things are a hundred times better today than they were two years ago.

Therefore, I declare that it is time for an “ENCOURAGEMENT PANDEMIC.” An outbreak to occur over a wide geographic area and to affect an exceptionally high proportion of the population.

Our world, every state, every city, every business, every school, every person and every church needs to be encouraged today. If you are breathing and reading this article, I am sure you need encouragement. If you are breathing and reading this article, someone needs your encouragement.

Life is still teaching me many good principles. One of which is this, the right encouragement can be contagious. The right words, the right deed or action can be infectious to others. Encouragement keeps us going and most of all it gives us hope. Every person needs encouragement, and every person should be an encourager.

Allow me to encourage you today with these Scripture promises:

“I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overpower it.”  Matthew 16:18b

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come on you.” Acts 1:8a

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but one of power, love and sound judgment.” 2 Timothy 1:7

In the midst of all the dark and bliss and as we are making the turn out of the COVID-19 pandemic, may the Lord God himself, always be your shield, your glory and the lifter of your head (Psalm 3:3).