Church family,
lately I’ve noticed a general sense of frustration and fatigue amongst us and in our community. Perhaps it has to do with the continued increase in coronavirus cases, the recent closing of schools, isolation from quarantine, the onset of cold/flu season, etc. (Should I keep going???). I’ve told you before that it is the pastor’s job to tell you where he sees God is at work. That is true in times of great rejoicing and success, as well as in times of frustration and fatigue. So here I go:
1. God is at work amongst our members. While I can’t provide names, I’ve witnessed numerous times these days where church members have stepped up to meet needs that include meals and prayers in times of sickness, groceries in times of need, and even presents to help with upcoming holiday expenses.
2. God is at work in our hearts. Our “I am a Church Member” class started off huge, and dwindled a little as coronavirus cases increased; however, that doesn’t take away from some of what I heard shared that included these comments: 1) I feel like this has unified our church in a way that it hasn’t been in a long time; 2) The greatest gift God has given me (outside of salvation) is my church family; 3) I go to this church because it is centered on God’s Word; 4) I want to go to church to serve, not to be served.
3. God is giving us people to love. Whether it is unchurched children on Wednesday nights, or people who have quarantined themselves to keep from being exposed to COVID, our folks are regularly loving others by feeding, teaching, encouraging, and praying for them.
4. God is teaching us to depend on him. From national turmoil from the election, to the ups and downs reflected in our attendance patterns, it’s clear that we are living in an uncertain time. It was to a much greater degree of uncertainty experienced by his disciples that Jesus directed these words: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” (Jn 14:27).
I love you and I love being your pastor!
Blessings,
Pastor Matt