Around 5 pm, it stopped raining for the first time all day. I cannot remember such dreary weather on any of the 51 Easters of my life, but that is small news compared to the ongoing COVID-19 virus situation that has required us all to “shelter in place.” It doesn’t feel like Easter at all, but I am grateful for the clearing sky, and I decide to take my dog on a long walk.

“How are you doing?” That has become such a common greeting that often a serious response is not expected or provided.

This is an unprecedented time for the body of Christ globally. As things continue to unfold, the people of God are asking crucial questions. What does it mean for us to be the people of God in this devastating situation?

In light of further developments with the COVID-19 virus, the pastors and elders of Living Hope have determined to suspend our weekend gatherings for March 15 and 22.

I wanted to write you a brief note to shed some light on our considerations as a church in regard to the COVID-19 virus and our gatherings.

It was refreshing to spend quality time with my church family outside of Living Hope’s walls. I’m so thankful for our time to make memories and celebrate all those who offer their time, talents, and hearts to serve the body of Christ.

Today is Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent, a season that the Church has long observed as a time to reflect upon our sin and the great work of Christ at the cross, and to prepare our hearts for the joy of Easter.

When Christ-following men engage one another in gospel-centered relationship, scripture says this same wonderful transformative process takes place. Each man’s “countenance” is “sharpened”.

The mission of LHKids is to teach the truth of the gospel in a way that kids understand and embrace it and want to change their lives because of it.

As we look ahead to next steps in 2020, we want to reflect on how God directed us in 2019 to a curriculum change, in order to focus on our mission.

Mission and sharing the Gospel story with others does not have to be complicated, but it does require us to be present and intentional. This Sunday is a great time set aside by our culture for us to do both!

Reflection upon 2019 brings encouragement due to the involvement of so many Living Hopers reaching out to people near and far with the love of Christ.

LH Women is kicking off their next Bible study very soon! I encourage every woman to sign up, especially if you are scared of doing it. I certainly was.

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” - Isaiah 9:6

“The wilderness and the dry land shall be glad; the desert shall rejoice and blossom like the crocus; it shall blossom abundantly and rejoice with joy and singing… Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf unstopped. Then shall the lame man leap like a deer, and the tongue of the mute sing for joy. For waters break forth in the wilderness, and streams in the desert.” - Isaiah 35:1-2,5-6 (ESV) 

“There shall come forth a shoot from the stump of Jesse, and a branch from his roots shall bear fruit. And the Spirit of the lord shall rest upon him, the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord.” - Isaiah 11:1-2

It was a gift to gather with more than 20 families from within Living Hope as we shared good food, good community, and most importantly good news. We oriented ourselves around the good news of what God has done in Jesus every week.