Impact of Illinois Shelter-in-Place & Covid-19

March 21, 2020

The state of Illinois has declared a shelter-in-place order similar to California and New York taking effect today. Businesses that are considered non-essential are ordered to either close or work from home. People can still go outside for walks and fresh air, but are supposed to only travel for essentials like groceries, restaurant pick up, doctor appointments, etc. This order is in effect until April 7th.

For the time being, I am suspending all street ministry. That decision grieves me because there are many people who are suffering especially because of the financial impacts. But the Bible says to submit to authority, especially when it is for the good of the people. We will do what we can to continue reaching people with the Gospel online and encouraging people in this time. I have also made myself available to the Lake County Sheriff’s office as a Street Chaplain on an as-needed-basis.

I know there are a lot of opinions out there about the level of reaction to Covid-19. Some think it is blown out of proportion. Others are terrified of getting the virus. No matter what you believe though I think we can all agree that we want this to end. Scientists and health professionals around the world are doing their very best to stop it, but right now that’s not enough. NOW is the time to trust in Jesus and ask for His divine intervention.

Most people have tried to live without Him by depending on themselves, their money and material wealth. This crisis has torn that down from many people. We need to trust Jesus. Trust that He will provide for our needs and cry out to Him for His help to end this.

Many of you are hurting and I encourage you to do your best to take advantage of the increasing number of resources that are out there to aid you. But more than anything let’s trust more in God to provide and intervene.

If you need some prayer, encouragement or just someone to talk to please message me. I know God has called on me to minister in this time.

May the Kingdom of God continue to advance in these dark times!

On mission for Jesus with you,
Matt Kearney