November 5, 2020

Dear Friends,

I hope that everyone is staying safe during these  days. I do not think many thought that we would be in the same state we are in now back in March, but here we are. I know it has been a slow trip for many, with many frustrations along the way. I take comfort in knowing that where we are today, is no surprise to God. When we hold onto Him, we can weather any situation that comes at us. I have been reading through Isaiah this fall and in Isaiah’s broken world, God remained the one constant. He even was able to look forward to better days with hope as he foretold the coming of the Messiah, Jesus. One of the things that has helped me this fall was to take a personal, “time out” with time away to recharge spiritually, emotionally, and physically. As has been said, this is a marathon, and we all need to train and pace ourselves in all areas of our lives.

Last spring, I encouraged people to make a list of things they could do, and not focus on what they could not do. It is so easy to only focus on the negative, the obstacle in front of us and miss positive change around us. To that end I asked the staff here to make a list of things that we have accomplished over these past seven months, and while not complete, it is encouraging. I have been excited when I have seen people personally look at a need and rise to the occasion and ask the question, “What can I do to help?” and then do something.

As we soon turn the corner into winter, I would ask each of us again to focus on what can be done. I truly believe God has given us this opportunity to rise to the occasion and serve. Serve individually and in small groups to others around us. It is also an opportunity to take time to renew your relationship with God through prayer and study.

Thanksgiving season, Christmas season is upon us. We have reason to have hope because we have seen what Isaiah could only predict- the coming of hope, the coming of Jesus into the world to bring salvation. Isaiah 60 :1,2 says, “”Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you. See, darkness covers the earth and thick darkness is over the peoples, but the Lord rises upon you and his glory appears over you.” May we be people who deliver hope to those around us who need it.

Be encouraged and be an encourager.