Social Distancing, Masks

This Thanksgiving was different than last year's. So much has happened in the last nine months, hasn't it? And we have hit another speed bump along the way out of COVID-world. This week began a three week statewide "pause" that effects businesses, restaurants, casinos and... churches. In fact, all public and private settings really. I imagine the feelings about this is wide-ranged. Let me share with you what our adjustments are, then I'll close with something I've been contemplating.

The statewide pause means we'll be making some adjustments so that we can do our best to honor the directives.

1. This affects our numbers for the services. We are adjusting from 70 in a service to 50.
2. We need to be masked the whole time. So, I will preach with my mask on and the band will sing with theirs too.

I know it's inconvenient, and even distracting in some ways. But I am so thankful that we can still gather and worship! That far outweighs the inconvenience for me - I hope for you, too.

Also, with less spots I imagine that they'll fill up quickly, so be sure to put your information down on the waitlist and you'll be put on the list for the following week.

This Sunday (and the next) we are going to fast forward in 1 Peter to chapter 2:11-17 where Peter addresses how we are to respond as Christ-followers. It's so applicable to our day that I felt like we needed to not wait to get there. Then we'll head back into chapter 1 where we left off last.

Finally, let me repost for your encouragement something that I've shared before about contentment. Contentment (and not complaining) is something I often struggle with, I imagine you do as well. I will often refer back to this list to redirect my thoughts:

1. Never allow yourself to complain about anything, even the weather.
2. Never picture yourself in a different circumstance or someplace else.
3. Never compare your lot with the lot of another.
4. Never allow yourself to wish this or that have been otherwise.
5. Never dwell on tomorrow. Remember it is God's & not yours.
6. Choose to be thankful for exactly where you are.

Those are good aren't they? As I think on that with Philippians 4:4-9 in hand, it is a powerful guide for me.

May the Lord guide you, my friends. I am looking forward to diving into His Word with you and walking all the more closely to Him. God is good, all the time.

In His Grip, Pastor John