I would imagine that everyone is thrilled at finally being together bodily and holding religious service in our sanctuary on Sunday, May 31, 2020. It has been a long road of precaution and decision making for our community, our nation and the world. And that particular Sunday was Pentecost Sunday where we celebrate the birth of the Christian church.
You will notice that even though our county has moved into the yellow stage of operation, we at Emmanuel UCC are still regarding your safety with the upmost concern.
As minister, my hope is that everyone continued to worship in their home and allow the videoed Sunday service to act as a guide and reassurance that God cares, and “God is Still Speaking,” during this time of pandemic.
A verse from the Book of Joshua appeared at the beginning of the recognition of the Corona Virus as a world threat to health. Joshua 1:9 states, Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.
This verse has helped my family and I have continued faith in God knowing that is always with us, especially in times of need. Psalm 27:1 reads,The Lord is my light and my salvation—so why should I be afraid? The Lord is my fortress, protecting me from danger, so why should I tremble? The list goes on and on as we recognize the Holy Bible as a source of faith, courage and comfort.
We held service on Sunday, May 31, 2020 as a service of new beginnings appropriate to Pentecost Sunday. New found faith in a God who soothes, protects, and is always with us and a God who provides an impenetrable fortress built around us.
Our faith in the savior Jesus Christ makes God all that much more accessible, approachable and known to us. In return, we have the faith that stands as a rock immovable.
Let us continue to stand together and pray for the victims of this dread disease, those who work to keep us safe, and for our growing faith to face difficult times and challenges in our lives. Shalom to all,
