Facing Our Fears
First the coronavirus, then the burglary. Our church has certainly faced its share of challenges in recent weeks.
So, what do we do? How should we respond? Do we run away in terror, or do we step up and face our fears?
I admit to being a little skittish since last week’s break-in. The church that for me represented safety, security, and serenity had been shaken. I found myself being more cautious as I entered the building — which is probably a good thing — but there is a difference between being guarded and being paranoid. Every little bump, or clang, or click can become unsettling.
This is not what God intended, especially in the House that our ancestors built, so I am asking you to join me in prayer for our church. We often refer to it as bricks and mortar, but we know that it is so much more than that, even when empty.
When restrictions are lifted and we are able to worship again in our sanctuary (even if we still have to physically distance ourselves), I and going to ask you to join with me in an anointing of the church as we ask God to consecrate, sanctify, bless, and protect our church and our people.
In the meantime, we can take comfort in a passage from the Old Testament Book of Isaiah, which helps us to put things in perspective in Chapter 41, Verse 10: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Sometimes that’s easier said than done, but when you think about it, such a response actually strengthens our faith. When he is with us, who can be against us? He affirms that he is our God, and he promises to strengthen us and help us in all situations and circumstances. He will uphold us with his righteous right hand.There is no power in heaven or on earth that can overcome His Righteous Right Hand. We may be weak, but he is strong. So, let us move forward boldly and without fear.
Announcement: Our Food Pantry Resource Center is now open. We continue to appreciate donations of food or monetary donations to support this new outreach ministry. If you know of someone in our neighborhood in need of help at this time, please tell them to call 330-264-3527 to set up an appointment to get the help they need.