“We cared so much for you that we were pleased to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own lives, because you had become dear to us” (1 Thessalonians 2:8)
Dear Church Family,
The local community of God’s people is an essential part of the Christian life. It is God’s intent for us to be connected. The present restrictions have made this harder. We hoped we had reached the supposed end of our struggle with the COVID virus, but that appears not to be the case. It’s been a number of weeks now since we stopped meeting together for worship on Sunday’s and I’m sure like me you miss seeing people Sunday by Sunday and sharing life together in Christ Jesus.
What are some ways we can continue to encourage each other during this time of lockdown?
We now are back to our Zoom meetings, which is not the same as face to face meeting at church, however, it is one way to help us to stay connected with one another. I would encourage all who have the technical devices to join in on our Sunday morning Zoom online gatherings, each Sunday morning at 10 am and to make the most of these opportunities and “to stir up one another to love and good works…” Hebrews 10:24.
All of this reminds us that in God’s purposes we were created for community. Can I encourage you to call one another, email, or text. You can also make use of our updated contact list to pray for one another. If there was ever a time to pray for one another, it’s now. I’m sure people in our church family would be delighted to hear from you. So why not plan to make contact and encourage one another in the Lord?
It is also a great time to demonstrate practical love and support to neighbours and friends around us in the community who are not church people. Some people living on their own are lonely, anxious and discouraged. There are so many ways we can live out the love of Christ to our neighbours by showing care and sharing our hope in Christ Jesus. Let us also be mindful and prayerful for people who may be listening in to God’s word, online, that they might come to know who Jesus really is and believe.
It may be some time yet before we are able to return to our regular worship services and other ministries. However, we are thankful for our Ministry and Growth Groups who continue to serve our church well, as they reach out to Playtime Mums, children, youth, and men and women in the community through the Zoom meetings and personal contact. Remember them in your prayers as they work hard to serve us in these ways.
The words in first Peter chapter 3:12 are helpful at this time, Peter here is quoting from Psalm 34 and he reminds the church that “the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their prayer.” So even though some might feel lonely through this time of isolation, or fearful, Peter reminds us that we are not abandoned by the Lord. Our future hope is secure in Christ Jesus our Lord, and He watches over us and loves to listen to the prayers of His people.
How blessed are we to have Jesus our King and Saviour!
Matt on behalf of our Elders