Pilgrims and Pandemics

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth gives way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging. There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells. God is within her; she will not fall; God will help her at break of day. Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall; he lifts his voice, the earth melts. The LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. (Psalm 46:1-7)
 
In order to help prevent the spread of the novel corona virus, our congregation has stopped meeting together in person, though we will continue to worship and study the Bible together online. We do this not because we are afraid, nor because are forced to, but out of love for our neighbors and concern for the most vulnerable among us. We believe that God is with us regardless of what causes the nations to be in uproar; He is an ever-present help in times of trouble. So, we look for the opportunities amid calamities to demonstrate His love for others and to address their fears with the confidence we have that nothing can separate us from the love of God that is ours in Christ Jesus!
 
“Heavenly Father, thank You for Your presence with us in all circumstances and the confidence we have in your deliverance. Open our eyes to ways in which we can show Your love to our neighbors amid the current crisis, that they may share the confidence we enjoy, in Jesus’ name, amen.”
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HONEST TO GOODNESS
A Sunday school teacher was telling the story of the Good Samaritan. 
She asked her class, "If you saw a person lying on the roadside, 
all wounded and bleeding, what would you do?"
A thoughtful little girl broke the hushed silence, "I think I'd throw up."
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Another teacher was describing how Lot's wife looked back
and turned into a pillar of salt when little Jason interrupted,
 
"My Mommy looked back once while she was driving," 

he announced triumphantly, "and she turned into a telephone pole!"
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A third teacher was telling the story of Noah and the ark.

She asked, "Andrew, do you think Noah did any fishing from the Ark?"

"No," replied Andrew. "How could he, with just two worms?"
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The Lord bless you with confidence, courage, and a clean bill of health! 

In Jesus, Pastor Kirk