I have some updates that will affect how and when we gather as the church for the next few weeks. As you may know, the CDC has issued recommendations to limit gatherings of people larger than 10. I have spent time in prayer and had multiple conversations with our leadership team about these recommendations. I believe it is wise to follow these instructions; therefore, we are postponing all in-person gatherings until further notice.
Even though we will not be meeting in person on Sundays, we are still the church. The church is not a building or location; it is a people, redeemed by God through Christ! Therefore, I would like for our church to continue with our weekly habits of worship and study of His word. We will make an online church gathering available utilizing a link on our website. On Sunday mornings at 10 am, click the link on our website and join us for a time of worship and study. Please know, this is not a substitute for gathering as instructed in the New Testament, but I believe it is a way for us to worship and learn from God’s Word during this unique time in our world.
As a final note, we are living in a world of deep darkness. Empty grocery store shelves and doubt at every turn seems to be the new normal all around us. Please remember who we are as the people of God. We do not broker fear and live in anxiety as this world does. We are ambassadors of hope and ministers of reconciliation. Jesus told us there would be famine and rumors of wars as we inch closer to the return of our King. Do not be surprised or worried about what will happen. Do not spread fear and uncertainty on social media. Instead, spread hope and share the Good News of Jesus! Nonbelievers are thinking about matters of death and faith, whether they want to or not. Instead of adding to the panic, speak life, and steer conversations toward God. This is our time to shine bright, not hide our light under a basket of worry.
So, fix your eyes on Jesus, gather with me online this Sunday, and shine bright, people of God!
– Pastor Marshall Ochs