I was supposed to be in Cyprus. I was supposed to be enjoying some late autumn warmth in the eastern Mediterranean island. I was supposed to be with friends from all around the world with whom I count it a privilege to be part of the same wider church family. I was supposed to be at table after table learning from people who know more, have done more, love more and prayed more than I could ever imagine. That’s what was supposed to be happening right now. But you know there’s all this (waves hands generally at the world).

I’m pretty sanguine about these sorts of losses, they were extra blessings in a blessed life, rich provision on top of already rich provision. As good as it would have been to have enjoyed that opportunity (and it would have been good), it would be churlish of me to complain. I’m not suffering as a result of not being there, I’m just not having it even better.

But it is a missing out. Yesterday, I wondered whether Sweden would miss out on some form of cultural or spiritual renewal because it has not really been forced into asking existential questions through this pandemic because it has, so far, avoided the path of crisis. Interesting then, that as I listened to Mark Sayers speak online (instead of in Cyprus, have I mentioned that already?) he spoke about this very issue. of how churches are reimagining their ministry and mission in the light of this crisis and then he said this:

“When you look at the story of Scripture, when you look at the history of the church, that so often those moments when God advances His church, He expands and multiplies His Kingdom, His people grow in faith, they share the gospel, the Holy Spirit’s power is present; at those moments of renewal, revival and awakening they are preceded by crises.”

So will it be as simple a formula as crisis + God = renewal? Or in the case of Sweden what is the answer to this equation no crisis + no God = ?

It was the first time I’ve heard Mark preach and he was excellent. The whole thing is well worth listening to.