In a season, where many are dealing with “less”, it is exciting to see that there are a lot of mores……Families are playing games together more; people are getting outside more, walking more, planting flowers more, talking as families with each other more.  Some have even made time to rewatch Super Bowl 52 a few more times!
But, the “lesses” are heavy.  The number of people putting in claims for jobless benefits last week was 5 times higher than any week in US history (3.3 million Americans), the stock market is still down 40 % and the Corona virus continues to spike in both confirmed cases and related deaths in the US.  For many, these numbers are very personal, as you have lost your job, the Stock Market has savaged your fixed income, and there are people you know that you fear for with the virus.
The Book of Hebrews was written to Jewish Christians who were facing intense hardship. Due to their faith in Jesus, they had become social outcasts, which had caused terrible financial pressures for them.  Persecution, loneliness, loss, and a fearful future, were real to these brothers and sisters. Two truths they were encouraged to lean on, speak to us today:        “Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” So we can confidently say, “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me? (Hebrews 13:5-6)
It is vital to keep in connection with each other.  We are not designed to do life solo.  We need the voices of others challenging our thinking with truth and perspective, encouraging us, supporting us.        And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, 25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another“.  (Hebrews 10:25-26)
We plan to send out this email each week in order to remind you of ways you can stay connected with others here at FCC. You are not alone, and as Pastors, church staff and ministry leaders, we hope to help you be connected with others.  More than ever, we need to be community to each other.  This is going to both of our campuses, as, more than ever we are reminded that we are “one church in two locations”.
-Pastor Mark-