Church family, I pray this message finds you well! What a season it’s been, as we’ve navigated through the storm, finding our way to the other side together. Amen?
This Sunday, June 14, marks 14 weeks of worshipping from home due to the COVID-19 virus. But what a gift it’s been (by God’s grace, modern technology and a whole lot of hustle) that even though the church doors were shut, Community Life Church was never closed. I can’t begin to tell you how much God has taught me over the past three months, as He challenged us all from the scriptures to consider who we’re to be in this new normal.
That we might be a people of peace wherever we are. That we would choose to live, open to the interruptions He places before us. That we would remember what was, and acknowledge what is, but always look forward…to where God is working now. Because in the end, the past is just prologue to our greatest possible future that God has set aside for us. If we would just have the faith and courage to take a step.
This is where we’ve been; learning, growing, mourning, and rejoicing. In the midst of a global pandemic, a polarized political climate, a financial recession, and civil rights revolution; holding fast to the promise that God is real, God is good, God loves us, and always leads to peace.
This is where we’ve been. But as Pastor Jeff so eloquently said in his last message, “now what?”
Well, I’m pleased to announce that the deacons and staff have come up with a 3 Phase Plan, to help bring the community back together, while doing everything we can to keep everyone safe. We truly believe that the best days are still ahead, for all of us, and these are the steps we’ll be taking to get there. Keep in mind however, this plan is a living framework that is open to modification as we receive updates from local and state health departments.
I understand we are all at different places in our assessment of the severity of COVID-19. This means, there will be some who think it’s too soon, and others that say “what took so long?” So wherever you find yourself, or your family, please approach this plan with patience and discernment. There is no lesser faith for waiting to come back, or greater faith for rushing in. God is with us all, wherever we are, and will continue to meet us in-person AND online. So don’t feel pressure from us one way or the other.
For those wondering what these phases will include, continue on to the following pages for specifics. But please know, we will work hard to provide a clean, safe, environment as we help people find connection and hope in this new normal. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out. We are here for you. The best is yet to come!
Pastor David
