“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you by my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10
Earlier this week, I told you that we would communicate any new updates and responses that we have as a church family.
Important perspective about concerns, anxiety and fear
As Christians we must face the reality, the unknowns, and the fear of coronavirus with faith in the living God who is with us and who promises to strengthen us. Our faith in the sovereign God should make our response distinct. Today, followers of Jesus have an opportunity to show that faith in Christ the King makes them courageous in the face of death. We are people who not only look out for ourselves and our families, but who care for our neighbors as well. As His saints at LifeWay, I urge us individually and corporately to the following characteristics by faith:
- Be courageous. “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God.”
- Be wise. “I will strengthen you; I will help you.” Faith in God brings us His wisdom.
This weekend
This weekend we will have public church services at our normal times of 9 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. On Sunday we begin our annual support of Buliisa, Uganda, which this year we are calling Multiply! Buliisa. That said, I ask you to follow the guidelines our public health officials have been reiterating.
- If you or your children are not well for whatever reason, please stay home. Not only do we want to be cautious about spreading illness to others, but I do not want those who are vulnerable to become sick as well. If you do stay home because you are not well, please contact our church office so we can minister to you appropriately. Health care professionals are encouraging elderly people with chronic issues to stay away from large group gatherings. I would ask that we all be wise in following this advice.
- Kids and volunteers in KidVenture and Lil’Venture will be asked to use hand sanitizer when they check in, before snacks, and as they leave. We want to help minimize the spread of any germs among our kids. Please note: Nursery will not be available this Sunday.
- When you attend the group services or classes this weekend, offer a friendly wave, elbow tap, or fist bump instead of handshakes and hugs. We are a friendly church, but we also need to be prudent, wise and responsible.
- Wash your hands frequently, especially after working with kids or touching commonly touched surfaces.
- Sunday messages are posted online each week, usually by the following Wednesday. I fully realize that listening to a message is not in any way like participating in the community of believers, but it will help you stay caught up in what we are doing during this season, even if you feel you cannot attend services.
More updates will come as the days move on. Pray for our community and our world. Christ can use us best during great times of uncertainty and fear.
Billy Arnold
& the LifeWay Leadership Team