Dear First Pres,
We’re in the thick of it, aren’t we? This latest variant of COVID-19 is swiftly sending our world into a swirl again. And, it’s hitting close to home. There have been more positive or suspected cases in our congregation than at any other time in the pandemic. And, I’m hearing from many of you the negative impact it’s having on your organizations and families. Yes, we’re in the thick of it.
So, knowing that all of us want this pandemic to end and illnesses to decrease, I do encourage you to wear a mask when participating in church activities that are indoors. And, I encourage you to join me in praying for God’s mercy over COVID.
Let us be praying for God’s mercy to bring health to those who are grappling with illnesses right now. Let us be praying for God’s mercy to give strength and protection to all our medical care workers. Let us be praying for God’s mercy to give wisdom to all those who are making public policies related to this pandemic. Let us be praying for God’s mercy to protect those who are most vulnerable to severe disease. Let us be praying for God’s mercy to give insight to those trying to figure out how to best treat this virus. Let us be praying for God’s mercy to lead us in knowing how to be His people in His world in such a time as this. Let us be praying for God’s mercy to use these circumstances to turn hard hearts into ones that yield to God’s mercy by His Spirit. Let us be praying for God’s mercy to bring this virus and all its deathly effects to an end. And, let us be thanking God for the way He has shown His mercy again and again over these last two years.
There’s lots to be praying for, isn’t there? Yes. And that’s why I’m so glad we’re in the midst of these 21 Days of Prayer and Fasting. I hope you’ve had a chance to attend in-person or online the evening services of prayer and worship that are happening each night of these 21 days at churches around our city. We are hosting the service tomorrow night, Friday, January 14, at 7:00 pm. I truly encourage you to participate as it is always a wonderfully encouraging time.
Finally, may we all remember today, that God is over us. In the same way that His eye was on the elders of the Jews in Ezra 5:5, His eye is on us. The Lord Almighty is paying attention to us today. He cares for each one of us. And through Christ Jesus, God has made Himself completely present with us by the Holy Spirit. May that bring us today, by the Spirit, authority and strength and courage and help and hope in Christ Jesus.
Blessings,
Pastor Jeremy
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