I saw footage of the reaction of English soccer fans at the news of England’s long-awaited return to European Soccer finals. They were ecstatic, overjoyed, passionate, enthusiastic. What a contrast, I thought, to the level of enthusiasm for their faith– at least overtly – of many church members.

I don’t expect Anglican worshipers and members to jump up and down and shout, but it would be a refreshing change. You never know, others might think there was something exciting about our faith.

How is your level of passion for God going lately? I think that the Covid situation has been so oppressive for most of us, that it has cast a pall over our spirits. Constant warnings, fear of contracting it, endless reciting of statistics and restrictions to life, work and fellowship – even preventing us from breathing naturally God’s fresh air: all these have depressed our spirits.

So what can we do about all this downwards drag on our spiritual enthusiasm? St Paul urges us: “Don’t hesitate to be enthusiastic – be on fire in the Spirit as you serve the Lord” (Romans 12:11). Here are some clues. Keep serving the Lord – don’t let the situation stop you from serving the Lord and building others up. If you can’t meet face to face, call someone. Visit them even if you have to stand outside their window for a chat! Go to God and ask for the fire of the Spirit to warm up your spirit, to stir you to new energy.

We have more reasons to jump for joy than soccer fans!

Ralph G. Bowles