We all feel it: A sense of worry, confusion, and bewilderment.
The pandemic, unrest in cities and states, strife between people, economic uncertainty. It just seems like the list keeps growing, doesn’t it? During Governor Tate Reeves’ press briefing on Friday, he reminded us of the importance of faith in these troubling times.
Reeves said, “We need to recognize that governance alone, cannot solve these problems, and in some instances, mankind cannot solve all of these problems. They are a consequence of our imperfect world. Faith is how I deal with the current situation.”
The Governor introduced his friend and faith-leader, Pastor Cameron Tate, founder of Bridging the Gap Outreach in Jackson, and asked him to share words encouragement and hope.
Pastor Tate said he has been processing the meaning of what is occurring, “Our state has been hit, and our world has been hit, with some very unforeseen circumstances. I’m reminded, as I go back to scripture, in Psalm 34:18, it is recorded: The Lord is close to the broken-hearted and He rescues those whose spirits are crushed.”
“There are seasons in life where things come upon us that is a result of a fallen world, but there is hope”, said Pastor Tate. “There is hope in a person, and his name is Jesus, so I want to encourage you to turn to the Lord in a moment like this. I believe in moments like this. In 2 Chronicles 7:14 when God reminds us that if we call out to Him, that He would hear our prayers and He would heal this nation. That is my prayer, is that you would find hope in the promise that God has a plan.”
Pastor Tate said, while some churches are beginning to reopen, and others are still meeting virtually due to COVID-19 concerns, it’s most important to stay connected to the local body of Christ. “I believe in a moment like this, we all need one another. I believe this is the time that the church must stand together. I am so blessed to live in Mississippi. I’ve had the privilege to travel all over the state to preach the good news of the Gospel and I’ve seen so many churches and pastors with hearts who are ready to help.”
Pastor Tate highlighted a few of Mississippi’s outreach programs that are available to help those in need, physically and spiritually:
“As a faith leader in this community”, said Pastor Tate, “I am praying personally for you, and your family at this time. We know that it is not easy, but I want to remind you, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. I want to remind you, after every tragedy, there is always deliverance. I’m staying with you. Stay in faith, stay encouraged, stay hopeful, and know God will get us through this.”
