With social distancing measures in place, it may be tempting to think that the work of Christian missions has ceased. After all, most people are limited to their own homes and essential activities.

Yet, God is still active in the midst of the pandemic. One of the important ways God is working in our world is through the ministry of chaplains all across the United States.

This week (April 19-25) marks National Volunteer Week 2020 in the U.S.¹ All across our nation, tens of millions of people donate their time to help causes close to their hearts. Every April is an opportunity to thank those people for their efforts and recognize the contributions they have made.

When was the last time you thanked a fish farmer for tending to coast water net-pens, braving unpleasant weather and workplace hazards, to “farm” aquatic “livestock” such as salmon, trout, or shellfish for your dinner?¹

Every day is a precious gift. We hear that statement so often. But do we really believe it? Each new morning we rise to a new day with God-given time to bless our Creator and be a blessing to His creation. Time truly is the greatest gift of all. Without it, all other gifts are useless!

In a recent ICR Facebook post,¹ friends shared how they structured their prayers, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Several offered various models (e.g., A.C.T.S., P.R.A.Y., The Lord’s Prayer). Others said they lift up their prayers conversationally, talking with Jesus as to a close friend in the same room. There are certainly times for both formal and informal prayers.