#5: Fellow pastors are gifts from God: God has graced our church with two pastors. While I was out of commission, my fellow pastor stepped into the helm and put his previous lead pastor experience to good use. It was a great comfort to me in sickness to know that my fellow shepherd was leading our flock. I’m thankful that God was able to spotlight his gifts to our congregation during this time. He’s a good man, you know it, and I’m eternally thankful for him.

#6: God’s people are full of love: You folks called, texted, sent notes, made meals, gave us money for meals, and prayed for healing. You did all the little things needed to prepare for our services and filled in the gaps. Somebody watched our kids when my wife took me to the emergency room. You came to our house and caroled at our front door, bringing both me and my wife to tears. I’ve never seen such love from you all, and without having Covid-19, I might have never seen it. I’m overwhelmed by the privilege to serve such a wonderful church.

#7: A godly wife is the glue that keeps the family together: I’m convinced I’d die in three days without my wife. Day 1 – I’m in the fetal position in my bed. Day 2 – I’m shriveled up like a raisin. Day 3 – I’m in heaven. Okay, that’s a bit ridiculous, but it’s probably not too far off the mark. During this time, she managed our children and me, kept the house going, and did it all with a heavy load and heart. She did it while working through her own bout of fevers and headaches as well. Her kindness and diligence overwhelm me. I know I don’t deserve her, but I’m so grateful that she said “yes.”

#8: I love Bob Jones University: I say “I love BJU” for two reasons as it relates to my time with Covid-19. First, when I was able to start reading again, I read 172 pages of student papers I had to grade for a class that I recently taught for BJU. I always enjoy reading what these men have learned and how they are using it in ministry. Second, while I was sick, I read Dan Turner’s Standing Without Apology: The History of Bob Jones University. It helped me better appreciate the heritage of BJU in depth, how broad the ministry of BJU was, and the intensity of its battles over the years. It motivated me all the more to conquer Covid-19 and serve God because God’s work is worth every ounce of effort that we can give it, whether at a college, church, or wherever. 

Well, there you have it. I thank the Lord for giving me Covid-19, and you can see why above. If you happen to get it yourself, pray and see what the Lord might teach you as well.

All quotes ESV. Articles by Pastor Huffstutler are at davidhuffstutler.com.