It Was The Best of Times, It Was The Worst of Times

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair, we had everything before us, we had nothing before us.

You may recognize the quote above from Dicken’s, A Tale of Two Cities. Though written in 1859, it could have been written yesterday. With the present situation there are several degrees of fear and anxiety being felt by most people. Some see this time as one of a great inconvenience, others are more fearful. This is a strange time for all of us. Nothing in my lifetime compares with what we are experiencing now. For those of a previous generation, they can recall more turbulent times, a Great Depression, a World War. I have had some great conversations with these elder saints and they have given me a great perspective. Over and over they reminded me, “God is still in control.” I am amazed at their faith and they have been a great source of encouragement to me and my family.

As we practice social distancing, may we be careful of spiritual distancing. With the ability to meet for prayer meetings and public worship virtually impossible at this time, may we look at ways to draw closer as a church. I want to encourage you by giving you some practical things you can do to grow in your own faith, minister to your fellow church members as well as take advantage of opportunities to have spiritual conversations with those that may be open to the gospel.

• Spend extra time daily reading God’s Word. (if you need a Bible reading plan we have them available and will get them to you.)

• Pray specifically for others by name. Realize there are a variety of concerns and many different emotions among many.

• Reach out by phone, text, email, or any other means available to you. Pray with them and inquire of any needs that they might have. The church is able and willing to help. Please let me know of any needs they may have.

• Though our services will be available on Facebook, I realize many do not have computers . Please take advantage of solid ministries on tv and radio .

• You may know people, who do not know the Lord or are young in their faith. Look for opportunities to serve them in love and to be able to express the good news of Christ to them. God is still at work, and we were made for such a time as this. Already I have heard from some of you, how God has used you during this time.

Any ideas on how to best minister to everyone, please feel free to contact us.