April 20th, 2020

HUNKER DOWN WEEK 5


Good Lord's Day morning, everyone!

TODAY will be our fifth consecutive week of online-only services. I hope you are able to join us either on our Facebook page or on our YouTube channel, those will be up at 10:40 am. (Most of the time, the video service will be available on YouTube well before that time). 

This morning, we launch a short sermon series entitled "Resurrection Scenes." Today we will study John 20:19-29 and Jesus' appearances to ten of his disciples without Thomas, and then later with him.


Please allow me to give a little "shout-out" to our team members who work together to make our video services not only possible but pleasant to watch and listen to. I won't embarrass them by calling them by name here, but we couldn't do it without them. Thank you all!

ZOOM MEETINGS
On Wednesday evenings, we host a ZOOM meeting for prayer and devotional time in God's word. If you would like to join us, please let me know by e-mail, text, or call. The best way to reach me is on my cell phone at 479-238-3772. 

Some of our Bible study groups have begun to meet via ZOOM. If you would like to be a part of one of these, just let me know and I will put you in touch with the right person.

PHONE CALLS
One of the best ways to stay in touch during this time of social distancing is by phone. If you are a Sunday School class leader or Bible study leader, make it a point to call your class members.

Our deacons are making every effort to stay in touch with our widows and shut-ins. We have other volunteers who are available to run errands, deliver groceries, pick up medications, etc. Just let me know.

FIGHTER VERSES
Hebrews 13:5-6
Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” So we can confidently say,
“The Lord is my helper;
    I will not fear;
what can man do to me?”


In closing, I would like to offer a pastoral word. While we are able to do much with technology, it is not a substitute for meeting in person for prayer, worship, and Bible study. This time of not meeting in person has the potential to grow very discouraging. There are positive things happening, like folks watching/listening to the service who had not do so and likely would not have. I am very glad we are able to provide this service, but it is not the same as the gathered church. May this time apart cause us to long for the day when we meet again.

When we finally do get back together, one thing is for sure: it won't be business as usual (or business as before). Ken Braddy, director of Sunday School for LifeWay, has written a helpful article for us  entitled
24 Questions Your Church Should Answer Before People Return
Lots of food for thought and preparation. Not every question will apply specifically to us, but many will. You may think of other things to add to the list.
May the Lord bless and keep you until we meet again.

Grace and peace,

Pastor Greg