One Thing Remains

We are coming to the close of another year…one like no other, one that we could not have predicted, and perhaps, one that we could have done little to prepare for. But through all the difficulties we have faced, all the adjustments we have had to make, all the surprises we have encountered, we could count on one thing. One thing that’s been constant, that couldn’t be swayed, and could always be counted on. That one thing has been and will always be God’s faithfulness. His faithfulness, poured out to us with love, endures forever. Nahum 1:7 reminds us that God cares for those who trust Him. He gives strength to the weary, Isaiah 40:29, and we can find peace in Him, John 14:27.

As I write this, I hear that there is a new strain of the Corona virus that is even more contagious. Even with that news, I can find peace in knowing that God is working out His will and plan, not only for my life, but for the lives of everyone on the earth. I still make plans, I still have responsibilities to fulfill, but I do all of it without anxiety, without fear, and with trust in my Lord and Savior. I do know that I am blessed beyond measure and learn daily not to take the little things for granted. 

I can look back on the year 2020 and still praise God for everything that has transpired. I am also thankful for how He has grown the church spiritually. I am encouraged by everyone’s faithfulness, your commitment to loving and caring for one another, and how that extended to those beyond our church family. You have blessed over 100 children as well as their families through Christmas Cheer once again, although finances may have been tighter this year. Many of you gave sacrificially of your time and resources to reach out to families during our food drive which extended well beyond the duration that we anticipated. And God is aware of the many ways in which you bless one another through acts of love and kindness. The fact that many of you do these things without accolades and that your motive is love and obedience to God is encouraging to the leadership team. We pray for you continuously as we also know and appreciate your prayers for us. 

We don’t know what 2021 will bring. We don’t know what changes we will have to make, but we will continue to do what we can to keep the fellowship and worship services available to you. I pray that we will be allowed to continue to worship together in person. The elders have plans to go back to an outdoor service so that we can all be at the same service when the weather permits. We are thankful that we are currently allowed to meet in person and not have to rely on Zoom meetings. Up until this past year I only knew Zoom as a cleaning product that Amway sold! 

We are also thankful to God for your faithfulness in giving. When the pandemic hit, there was some concern as a few of you asked how we were doing financially. While many of you had to make adjustments in your own personal budgets, we were still able to pay our salaries and all of our bills. Giving has declined by about $1,100/week but we have not had to use the reserve emergency fund of $24K that was established in 2019. God continues to provide for our needs and for that we are very thankful. 

While we miss seeing everyone in person, we do understand and appreciate the fact that everyone has different health concerns and have to make personal decisions on when they feel safe meeting in person. Please know that we do miss those of you that we haven’t seen in a while. We pray for your health and more importantly, your desire and commitment to depend on God for all of your needs. 

I look forward to the day when we can meet for a time of fellowship and a meal as a church family. Until then, continue to spend time in the Word, in prayer and please continue to reach out to one another through emails, phone calls, text messages and other means that are available to us. 

Love in Christ,

Pastor Bryan