March 24, 2020
Leadership Notes
As you hunker down, I trust you all are being safe. Don't forget, if you are uncomfortable about getting out, there are people we can put you in contact with who would love to pick up groceries or medication for you. All you need to do is contact the church office.
We are making adjustments and moving forward. I love that the people of Covenant Church are reasonable, rational, and responsible. You are terrific. God is good all the time.
We all share the same concern for our economy. This pandemic affects the lives of all of us. Some of you are beginning to struggle. Some of you will struggle. Jobs are at risk. Nest eggs are threatened. While we are all in this together, the hardships are real. I know you will find comfort in your daily Bible reading and/or devotional time. Jesus' Beatitudes in Matthew and Paul's letter to the Romans are especially appropriate. God is good all the time.
I don't know about you, but I have been impressed with the governors of California and New York. They have put partisan bickering on hold. Unlike certain members of Congress, they know that uncertain times call for more cooperative strategies. God is good all the time.
Speaking of governors, Governor Whitmer is providing solid leadership. While churches are exempt from the restrictions on gathering size, Covenant Church, like most Michigan churches, is respecting the governor's authority on this. Not only is it the Biblically responsible thing to do, it is also what's best for our community of faith. Besides, it's not about restricting worship. It's simply about temporarily adjusting the ways we worship. God is good all the time.
I know people are a bit anxious right now. There are so many unknowns out there. And there are many things we have no control over. This is when we remember what Paul said…rejoice in the Lord, always; again, I say, rejoice. Remember, worry worships our fear. Keep your eyes on Jesus. Look full on his wonderful face. And the things of earth will grow strangely dim, in the light of his glory and grace. As Jesus said to his disciples, so he says to us - Be of Good Cheer!
Let's close with the prayer of Clement of Rome:
We ask you, Master, be our helper and defender. Rescue those of our number in distress; raise up the fallen; assist the needy; heal the sick; turn back those of your people who stray; feed the hungry; release our captives; revive the weak; encourage those who lose heart. Let all the nations realize that you are the only God, that Jesus Christ is your Son, and that we are your people and the sheep of your pasture. Amen.
Will you join me in saying this prayer every day?
With Deep and Abiding Love,
Richard