Crisis and Character

FROM THE EDITOR

The COVID-19 crisis has provided us with a unique opportunity in character development. Let's do a personal assessment of our own lives and join together in a renewed commitment to reflect Christ.

It has been said, “crisis reveals character.” If that is true, then us living in the year 2020 have had the opportunity (perhaps unlike any generation before) to observe and witness every shade and hue of character in existence in the world today—all on public display being played out for everyone to see in the media.

Consider the countless stories that have come out of individuals and groups who have dedicated their time and lives to meet the challenges and needs of others during this crisis to help make life easier. Ponder the numerous frontline workers who risk their lives and health to ensure people get critical care and services or the caring actions that people of all ages have demonstrated in giving a smile and joy to those who are lonely or desperate. Think of those individuals who have been working to bring destruction, damage, deception, death, loss of freedoms and human rights, violence, rioting and looting. There it is, all before us.

If you’ve watched the news, you’ve witnessed the extreme contrast between good and evil. You’ve seen the difference between righteousness and unrighteousness, faithfulness and unfaithfulness, between lawfulness and lawlessness. Character is being revealed.

The capacity of individuals and how they behave in courageous, inspiring, charitable ways under the holy and pure influence of God and His Spirit is remarkable. Contrasted with how desperate, dark, and frenzied people behave under the spell, infatuation and control of Satan is standing before us in the starkest, transparent, graphic ways ever. The Alberta Conference Administration recently made the decision to proceed forward with a Virtual Camp Meeting this year. The theme: Reflecting the Shepherd. I cannot think of a more appropriate topic than this one for this time. As Christians, and more importantly, as Seventh-day Adventists, our ultimate goal is to be like Christ. We want to be imbued by His Spirit, we want to demonstrate a godly character, we want to shine as bright lights in a dark world spreading the faith, hope, love, and fruits of the Spirit. This year, even though we are physically separated due to COVID-19, we can be joined together in a shared desire to reflect Christ…the Shepherd of our souls. I hope this issue of our AAN magazine provides encouragement to each of you. Perhaps seeing the different ways your fellow brothers and sisters have responded to this crisis will give you hope. Additionally, I hope that this issue will encourage you to join us for the Alberta Conference Virtual Camp Meeting 2020: Reflecting the Shepherd. It’s going to be an excellent time to spend with God and family and to virtually join in worship with your brothers and sisters across Alberta and the Northwest Territories. Hope to see you there (virtually)! God bless.

God bless.

Eric Ollila

Communication/IT/Media Director Alberta Conference