March 10, 2022 | Dan Low
Dear Bread of Life family,
Our prayer for one another throughout 2022 is that the God of hope would fill us with all joy and peace, believing in Jesus, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit we might abound in hope to others (Romans 15:13).
As we long for the end of this once-in-a-lifetime pandemic, we realize how much we need the empowering presence of God’s indwelling Spirit. In the midst of our fears and uncertainties, the Spirit reassures us that our sovereign Father in heaven is accomplishing his good purposes on earth. If we feel alone or discouraged, the Spirit prompts us to approach God’s throne of grace and encourages us to connect with our spiritual siblings. When we sense opportunities to speak about our faith in Jesus and the real difference that has made in such a time like this, the Spirit emboldens our hearts and shapes our words.
Another key expression of the Spirit’s supernatural presence within our church: an eagerness to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (Ephesians 4:3). Eagerly gathering together (in person) as a faith community is an important visible expression of how the Spirit unites us with peace, even in the face of our differences.
Without a doubt, I am so thankful that we can livestream our worship services to the ends of the earth. For those who live outside of our area or who are unable to join our services because of serious health concerns, the online option has been a wonderful gift. We are so indebted to our entire tech team who makes this possible.
For those who are joining us for in-person worship and other ministries at church, your physical presence builds up our faith. Without a doubt, we are so much more appreciative for the simple acts of getting in our cars, driving to church, seeing our friends, and singing and learning together as we worship God.
For those who live in our community and are simply more comfortable at home, it’s time to return for in-person worship (9:15 am in our sanctuary; 11:15 am under the tent) and other activities. The church family that gathers and assembles together is the vibrant community that loves and serves others.
What the writer to the Hebrews wrote in the first century is so relevant for our day: “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near” (10:24-25).
While I see people at home through the eyes of faith when I look at the camera, it’s so much better when we meet together in person and see each other at Bread of Life—for worship, prayer, Sunday school, fellowships, small groups, Bible studies, meals, basketball, and volleyball. We hope to see you soon!
Always more joyful, prayerful, and thankful when we see one another in person,
Pastor Dan
