We thank God for the amazing advances in technology in many areas of life, not least in the medical sphere. We are also grateful for the means to instantly connect and communicate with each other via the internet and social media. Nevertheless, we surely must agree that the kind of “meetings” we rely on in the present circumstances fall far short, in lots of ways, of the ideal. For instance, we are deprived of real fellowship which normally would necessitate physical presence and mutual input à la Hebrews 10:25... We are deprived of the real means of grace which requires praising together, praying together, hearing each other, as it were, breathe and respond together. The Word may be opened, read, commented upon via ZOOM, but the image is cold, almost clinical. The Word is to be preached in context of assembly! We cannot (and must not at this time) celebrate the Lord's Supper. We may chat on line, but that is not real fellowship either. These matters need to be reflected upon and call for serious self-examination both as a church and individuals.

In some ways we are like the exiles in Babylon where it was difficult to “sing the songs of Zion” in a strange land. As Psalm 137 puts it, “Our harps are hung on the willow tree.” Like them, we long for home (for us the new Jerusalem, the heavenly world) and the foretaste of home should be the Lord's Day assembly. But even in the ante-room of heaven, the local church, do we not need to prepare by reflection now for better times of revival, indeed even of reformation, should the Lord see fit to grant it us? We gather to praise and thank the Lord of Glory. We confess Him, we exhort in His name, but ultimately it is more important that we hear Him rather than that He should hear us. He wants to hear our real prayers but He does not need our words. However, we cannot live without His Word and words! Our place in exile (if the analogy is appropriate) in this hostile world, is to 'dare to be a Daniel' and part of the faithful remnant awaiting God's time.

Our Sovereign Lord has ordained that we should experience the effects and deprivations and fears in this pandemic. How do we read this severe providence? What difference will it make when we eventually, if and in His will, meet again in assembly? Will we simply continue as we have always done or will there be noticeable changes in us as He graciously deals with us? It is profitable for us to be provoked into questioning who we are and how we respond to the Master's instructions. Without leaving the old paths, we can enjoy real renewal in our hearts and minds.