Dear Church,
These are strange times with a lot of uncertainty still ahead. But one thing is certain — God was not surprised. While our normal communications are about the business of the church, during this time we want to share our hearts and encourage you to be the beautiful bride of Christ that God has intended.
First, we want to praise God for the good things we are seeing: people sacrificing for their brothers and sisters, families spending time together worshiping, and God’s people making it a priority to stay connected even if it can’t be face-to-face.
Second, we want to encourage each of you to not grow weary in doing good. These are times that can produce high anxiety, and without God’s care and mercy, we have every reason to be anxious, even terrified! But praise God, he does not leave us alone and we can always remind ourselves of what we are taught in Philippians 4:4-7:
Rejoice in the Lord always, again I will say rejoice! Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
So please pray with us, as we pray for each other, for those who are sick, for those who are caring for the sick, for those losing income, and for those who are lonely. Take advantage of the opportunities you have to care for a brother or sister in need, and the opportunities available to help us stay connected as a family in Christ. Connect with your small group to grow together through this. But most importantly, whether it’s on your knees, lying in bed at night, around your dinner table with your family, or any moment of the day, connect with your heavenly Father, draw on his strength, and let his love flow through you.
In your service,
UCity elders