We know that there are those who are interested in our thoughts regarding Governor Abbott’s statements from March 2nd. We are acutely aware that this issue can be one that frustrates some and causes anxiety in others and we eagerly await the Day when none of those feelings exist.
As a church, we are excluded from the requirements of executive orders related to COVID-19. As an elder team, we have tried to follow the best guidance we can, in consultation with medical professionals and through seeking the Lord’s wisdom. Our decisions have been imperfect, but we are grateful for a church that has given us grace over the past year.
The toll of this virus has been significant, affecting the lives and livelihoods of so many of us, our families and our friends. Your willingness to sacrifice some of your personal comfort for others has reduced the impact of this unpredictable virus on our congregation. This kind of sacrifice is a modern-day, tangible expression of what Christ means in Matthew 5:3, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
As we have discussed our short-term plans in relation to shifting local expectations, our current approach will be to continue operating as we have been (and reinforced in our January communication). This means our indoor (mask-wearing expected) and outdoor venues will continue on Sunday morning as we await (1) the broader availability of vaccination options for those who want them and (2) the continued reduction in case count. We hope that, in following these metrics, we only have a few more months of modifications to our gatherings. However, we are also aware that saying, “Everything is back to normal,” does not actually mean it is for many, and we continue to be sensitive to those realities.
Until Jesus returns and makes everything new, we will live with the consequences of sin. Knowing this truth allows us the ability to be aware of our own limitations and also frees us to be sensitive to the needs of others. This is an opportunity to love one another, even at the restriction of our own comfort.
Thank you for your continued prayers for one another, for your leaders, and for the church. We pray Jesus is continually seen and known through our congregation.