“Therefore let us not pass judgment on one another any longer, but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother.”
Romans 14:13
Lord willing, many of us will able to gather again in person next week to worship our risen Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! I am sure that you, like me, have missed this so very much and can’t wait to return. But as we prepare to do so, please keep in mind that this will not be easy, nor will it be a simple return to normal. Normal may still take a while.
With that in mind, please be aware that, as we gather, there are a number of restrictions that will have to be put in place. Some are required by state and county orders. Others will be a matter of prudent wisdom as judged by the elders. Be aware, also, that there will be bumps and difficulties along this road. Not all will feel comfortable returning to public worship immediately. Not all will agree with the precautions we put in place. Some will want more. Others would prefer less. But whatever we do, let’s agree now that we will do it with patience, grace and love toward one another. Romans 14:13 warns us not to pass judgment on a fellow believer for his or her differing views on non-essential things. Certainly working out the details of how we meet together in a time of pandemic would qualify as theologically non-essential. Your elders are committed to seeking the best wisdom we can find and doing what we believe is best for the health of our body, both physically and spiritually! And so, we ask that all members willingly abide by any restrictions we put in place, and that each of us keep in mind that none of us have ever walked this road before. None of us knows with perfect certainty what should be done. And so together with God’s help, we will seek to be wise and prudent as we loving guard the health and dignity of those around us. There will be much more to say about all this later. But for now, let’s move forward together with joy!
Looking forward to being back together!
Pastor Scott