I think you will understand and agree with me as I say that this era of COVID19 is a time of increasing sadness.

I’m sad about illness that cannot be shared. We have church family who have been admitted to the hospital . . . alone . . . and that will not change. Other family will not be allowed in. I’m sad that deaths have occurred within our church family and memorial services cannot be shared with more than 10. I’m sad because weddings are “on hold.” I’m sad because students who have worked hard and achieved things are having their contests cancelled. I’m sad for high school seniors whose end of year festivities are not going to happen.

I’m sad about loss of jobs. I’m sad about loss of businesses. I’m sad about disruptions of food supplies. I can go on and on in this vein.

In Psalm 13 David was just sad:

To the Chief Musician. A Psalm of David.

1 How long, O Lord? Will You forget me forever?
How long will You hide Your face from me?

2 How long shall I take counsel in my soul,
Having sorrow in my heart daily?
How long will my enemy be exalted over me?

I am profoundly grateful. I am grateful because I know the Lord God has and will hear us. One of the ways I know He has is because I hear of ministry that just excites me. People are “looking out for one another.” In fact, if you know people who feel they’ve dropped between the cracks, let us know and we will follow up. I have people on stand-by, eager to assist where necessary. Thank you Father, for hearing our prayers!

3 Consider and hear me, O Lord my God;
Enlighten my eyes,
Lest I sleep the sleep of death;

4 Lest my enemy say,
“I have prevailed against him”;
Lest those who trouble me rejoice when I am moved.

And, I’m far from despair! Our God is infinitely merciful. Through Christ Jesus He gives eternal salvation. I will even say with David that come what may (!) He is worthy of my song because in His mercy He has given bountifully!

5 But I have trusted in Your mercy;
My heart shall rejoice in Your salvation.

6 I will sing to the Lord,
Because He has dealt bountifully with me.

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There will be a Good Friday meditation online Friday after 7:00 PM. Read Romans 5 in preparation.

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You saw in last week’s bulletin that our former pastor, Dr. Forrest Williams died on April 2. You can read his obituary here.
Send condolences to the family to BeckyServi@Gmail.com.