For the next five weeks, I’ll be participating in an online Bible study once a week. In this COVID era, the pastor delivers the lectures via online video call, and participants can comfortably join the class from anywhere. I signed up for the Wednesday evening session to both hear the pastor’s sermons, which I usually enjoy, and participate in the Bible study. The class starts at 8 PM, which conflicts with my usual pickup time, making it practically impossible. But knowing it would be conducted via online video call, I mustered the courage to register. Without a moment’s rest, I walked, scanned boxes, loaded them into the car, and all the way to the terminal, I kept my earphones in, listening intently to the pastor’s words. Hearing the deep commentary on the Epistle to the Philippians was truly wonderful.

It’s actually quite amazing that Bible study like this is possible remotely. Just a few years ago, video conferencing seemed like something only seen in movies. Now, dozens of people can simultaneously listen to a lecture in real-time from their own rooms, offices, or even while driving like me. It’s truly astonishing. I’ll be studying Philippians online for the next five weeks. It’s a small effort to transform my daily repetitive deliveries and monotonous hours into something new and productive. God must be pleased, right?

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7)