“Rejoice always. Pray continually. Give thanks in every situation because this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” - 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (CEB)
To say that 2020 has been a challenge would be an understatement. I am sure that some of you might be experiencing some the same feelings that I am having as we enter Thanksgiving and Christmas season. They aren’t all feelings of joy and excitement, as they should be, because I am tired. Tired of not worshiping together at Church. I am tired of needing to wear a mask as a way to show love to others. I am tired of not seeing smiling faces when we are at the store. I am tired of not being able to visit with friends and love ones. I am tired not being able to go to the movies and enjoy a box of popcorn. I am tired of having my temperature checked, being asked the same questions over and over again. I am just tired of it all.
Then I read these verses from Paul’s letter to the Thessalonians and thought, Really? . . . Rejoice Always? Give thanks in every situation? Then my mind went to Absolutely Rejoice, because we can see that God is not tired and continually is blessing us in ways that we may not see right away. It may be hard to see at times, but God is moving and guiding us when we are struggling. Let’s think about this past year about just a few things we have done together with God’s help.
New combined website for the Charge.
Increase weekly communication of Circuit Writer.
Pivoted, fairly seamlessly, to online worship and bible studies.
Started a daily on-line devotional time called Reflections on Facebook.
Provided food boxes for several families from the local elementary school over the summer, Thanksgiving and are in the process of providing additional food for Christmas.
Continued support of the Western Hanover Action Team food pantry
Wood Ministry continued supplying wood and chimney cleaning for those in the community.
Even though we are not gathering together as much as we want, God is still at work at Beaverdam and Rouzie’s Chapel. We have lots to be thankful for this year. As we all are gathering around our Thanksgiving table this year, it will be different. It may feel different. There may not be as many seats around the table. Love ones might be missing. Friends may not be as plentiful. I don’t know what you are struggling with this Thanksgiving but remember, God is still there. If God is there, everything will be alright.
I am praying for all of you to have a safe and joyful Thanksgiving.
Grace and Peace,
Pastor Owen