There is no need to convince anyone; these are troubled times. Global COVID-19 pandemic, lockdowns, economic collapse, massive civil unrest around the world--and 2020 is only half over. The foundations of our world have become unsteady beneath our feet. The fair weather of normal life has become the tempest tossed “new normal.” And in this newly-minted chaotic age we find ourselves asking, “Where is refuge? What is solid? Where is a firm foundation in shifting sands?”
In Scotland and in East Mountain communities around the world, an image, a descriptive set of words has risen to the fore: “We are to be an ark of refuge.” This phrase first came up on an East Mountain director’s call in April during the height of the lockdown and has reverberated and grown in our thinking. As planned ministry events are cancelled (internships, pilgrimages, East Mountain meals and celebrations, etc.) we are all wondering what our calling is to be in this moment.
“We are to be an ark of refuge.” This phrase first came up on an East Mountain director’s call in April during the height of the lockdown and has reverberated and grown in our thinking.
So what does being an “ark of refuge” even mean on a practical level? That, like so many other things, is still unsure. But if this image is truly from God, it means, at the very least, that we, the East Mountain community, are rooted, grounded solidly in our faith in Jesus Christ and that we offer a presence of stability and refuge in a rocking world. We provide a space for the storm-tossed where God can provide His comfort, His assurance and His divine guidance.
In Scotland, there are ongoing talks in the government about when churches will be allowed to open again. The latest word is that it may be some time before that will happen. In this space of continuing upheaval, friends and partners are beginning to talk about a return to an ancient, New Testament model of Church that meets house to house. Is God bringing His Church “full circle?” Could we pivot our ministry plans and step fully into this potentially exciting proposal? Could we be catalytic in this moment as our partners seek the Lord on this point? Could this be our small part to play as we desire to see renewal, revival and movement break out in the UK, in Europe and around the world? That is yet to be seen.
Would you join with us as we pray about this image: “an ark of refuge.” Would you ask that East Mountain UK and all East Mountain communities would hear clearly, act boldly and be used of God in these extraordinary times?
Chris & Kirsten Furr in Edinburgh, Scotland
