John 4:23-24: 23 Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. 24 God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.”
The beginning of April usually comes with palm waving, shouts of Hosanna, celebrating Maundy Thursday and Good Friday with friends from our church and others in our co-op; and, on Easter, our Sonrise service, breakfast together, and our 10:30 worship service. As you’ve heard or at least guessed, these activities will not happen in traditional ways this year. Our April calendar is nearly blank. Meetings and classes that usually gather at church will be canceled, postponed, or held electronically at least through April 13, and probably through April 30.
On a more hopeful note, let me remind you of two of the things that are not canceled or altered by any virus or government proclamation.
The first of those two things is Easter. Jesus left the grave and conquered death! No power could keep Him in the grave or ultimately separate His disciples, then or now, from His presence. The hope and promise of Easter are not, nor can they be canceled.
The second thing that goes on even in quarantine and in the midst of illness, is worship. I’ve heard worship defined as, practicing God’s presence. Thankfully we can do that in our homes, with other household members or alone. We can recognize God’s presence in prayer, a walk, a creative activity, or a phone conversation.
I am anxious to see you all again when we can gather safely in our church building. Until then join me on Facebook or zoom for Sunday messages and daily scripture meditations if you have the capability. Continue to worship and celebrate the risen Christ in spirit and truth. If you have needs I can meet or you have seen God’s presence in a way you would like to share, please use whatever means you have at hand to contact me. I would also appreciate any suggestions any of you have for keeping people without email or internet connected to the church family.
In God’s love,
Pastor Brenda