Student Snack Pack distribution in the snow!
Really God? That's exactly what I was thinking as I drove home from Sandown on Monday night in a driving snow. If you know me, you may know that I'm not a big fan of the winter. So when the snow began to pile up on the roads and fields, I was not thrilled. But Tuesday morning I woke up to a beautiful, glorious snow-covered scene that glistened in the early morning sun. And even I couldn't help but see the beauty and give praise to God.
There does not seem to be much about this Coronavirus to be thankful for. Many in our country, and throughout the world, are sick and even dying. Education is disrupted. Businesses have shut down. People are losing their jobs. Then there are the ripple effects that we don't all see. For example, for many who battle addiction, Celebrate Recovery, AA, NA and other support groups are a lifeline that can no longer meet in person. The work of our church and many others is being impacted. Daycares are shutting down leaving parents in a difficult situation.
This pandemic is negatively impacting life in so many ways. But I believe our almighty God can bring good even from the worst circumstances. Blessing from curse. Beauty from ashes. So I want to encourage us today to see the beauty. Find and celebrate the ways that God is working in us, and among us, to bring good. Let me share with you a few ways that I am beginning to see the beauty in the midst of the storm.
· Neighbors helping neighbors. Since this Covid-19 situation began I have heard story after story of how people are reaching out to their neighbors, particularly our elderly, to support, love and bless them.
· Family time. Our culture runs at such a pace that many families have very little time together. But with so much closed or restricted, I'm seeing families spend more face time together.
· Acts of service. Since this began, I've seen so many people finding ways to serve. For example, we've had numerous volunteers help with our student snack packs and our elderly check-in program. I found out a couple of days ago that Karen Hodge is working with the Exeter Hospital to sew much needed masks. Karen and Will's daughter is a nurse at the Exeter Hospital. If any of you would like to help with that project, you can contact Karen at Karen_Hodge@comcast.net.
Even our kids love the livestream!
This is without a doubt one of the most difficult seasons we have been through as a nation in many years. But I want to encourage us to see the beauty. See the ways that God is at work through us to bring blessing from what the enemy meant for harm.
This Sunday we will again hold worship via live stream. Last week over 170 families joined us on the live stream and then hundreds more watched the recorded service at a later time. Just for fun, this week snap a picture of you or your family worshiping together at home. Post it to social media and then tag me in it if you would. I'd love to see the pictures. Another great idea that some have been doing is to start a watch party during the service so your friends and family can participate on line with you.
God bless,
Pastor Steve