As June comes to pass, in one way or another we have all been affected by the virus. While some may dispute the origin, the numbers, the things done or not done in the name of fighting it, one thing sticks out to me. People have lost their life to this illness and their families and friends are grieving their loss. We always hope we can be with our loved ones when they are critically ill, but the isolation aspect of this virus has prevented that comfort in most cases and that hurts our hearts. However, for those who have a personal relationship with Jesus, there is hope and good news. We know that in all settings, the Lord is our abiding shepherd (Psalm 23). We know that nothing this world can generate, including death, can keep us from the saving grace and love we find in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:38-39).
I have also been encouraged to see the response of many of our young people throughout the country. Their servant hearts and positive statements give us hope for today and for the future leadership of our country. 1 Timothy 4:12 Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.
I have been so blessed to see some of our graduating seniors grow up over the past six years. I know we can’t wait to see what the next chapter of life holds for these beloved young men and women. I encourage you to send them a card letting them know you are excited for them and what God has in store for their lives. (Send to the church address and we will forward if you like.)
As we begin to dream about what our 76th year of ministry will look like in 2021 and sharing this common Christendom theme of knowing Jesus and making Jesus known, it is evident that there is much more gospel-related work for us to pursue. To provide encouragement for our congregation, this month we will have several special guests be a part of our ChurchOnTheCouch.org online worship services. We hope the month of June will provide divine guidance as to how we will share Jesus with Clewiston and the world in an ever-changing environment. We have to remember how challenging ministry was in the days of Jesus’ disciples and how they faced imprisonment, cruel and punishing regimes, poor health conditions and still saw crowds of people come to faith in Jesus. (Acts 2:41)
In closing, tough times are always right around the corner in this life. But… to those who have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, we have hope and our destiny is secure because Jesus overcame the world. I encourage you today to come alongside someone who is grieving the loss of a loved one, the loss of their health, the loss of their job or any other loss or pain we can suffer in this life. And share the light and love of Jesus with them. The Holy Spirit will show you how to share this love and grace.
Speaking of love, God loves you and so do I.
Pastor Jeff