I can’t remember a Monday like this one. Rapid changes, increasing closures, recommendations, stipulations, and a whole lot of speculation. Is this real life?
Can you sense the frustration rising? Panic surfacing? Perhaps some paralysis with what’s going to happen next or what to do next? How do you react with the loss of control? Really? This is real life today. Still, there is good news.
Jesus meets us in that place. In every place.
Two things have been floating through my mind today, in addition to some frustration and uncertainty…
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in time of trouble.” (Psalm 46:1) - Read that a few times and let the truth, promise, and hope sink in. He is strong, stable, dependable. AND. Very present. VERY. Present.
The second thing floating through my mind:
“The unpredictability of life clips the wings of our self sufficiency.” - Derek Kidner - There is an odd gift of mercy when the veil of control, comfort, and strength is pulled back and life is shown for what it really is, a beautiful, fragile gift. With the lament, loss, angst all around us, seeds of gratitude, hope, trust and joy can be sown.
So what does life together with Christ and together in life look like right now? It’s been different every day, but here’s our current focus:
First, we will be looking for opportunities to love each other and our neighbors.
If you, or anyone you know needs help or prayer, our church is here, ready to serve. On the front page of our website there is a form that can be filled out and we will mobilize where needed to serve those around us.
Next, we will not be gathering together at the Adult Center for corporate worship on Sundays at this time. We are looking to love our neighbor by following the wisdom given so far by the government and local officials. The current recommendation says 8 weeks for gatherings, but we will be looking at this week to week.
Until we are able to gather all together again we will be providing a short podcast on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday with scripture readings, prayers, and reflections. Those will be available on our website and podcast channels (Apple Podcasts, Spotify)
On Sunday mornings we will provide an online liturgy for you and your family and possibly a community (again, with officials recommending groups of less than 10) with a few songs, readings, prayers, and short teaching. That will be posted on our social media channels and website. If you aren’t yet following Union Church on social media, I’d recommend you do so. (Instagram, Facebook, Twitter)
Our hope is in the midst of this uncertain season, we can deepen our roots in Christ, and show his love to those around us.
Much love to you all.
Jon, on behalf of the Elders