I just read yet another letter in the debate about the spiritual perils of churches closed because of covid-19 concerns. I sympathize with those who have lost what for them seems essential to their worship, but I recently came across a perspective from Christian pastor and author A.W. Tozer that, although it speaks of Christians, I believe is true for people of all faiths: “Keep a Christian from entering the church sanctuary and you have not in the least bit hindered his worship. We carry our sanctuary with us. We never leave it.”
Personally, I don’t need any specific place to be with my God. I can love, obey, worship and express gratitude and awe anywhere at any time. God hears even a single, whispered prayer because, well, he’s God. He wants all of his children to be safe and healthy, so trust God but tie your camel to a tree. That’s just another way of saying he helps those who help themselves.
Elaine Borowski Ciuffoletti
Apollo