Church Family Update - March 19, 2020

A Devotional Thought for Today:

“Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” (Philippians 4:8)

Can I ask you an honest question? Have you been obeying this verse? What are you spending your time thinking about these days?

Please don’t misunderstand the question. It’s important for us to stay informed so that we can make wise decisions and so that we can extend compassion towards others. But just how informed do we need to be? How many minutes (hours?) are you investing each day thinking about bad news and feeding a cycle of anxiety in your mind? 

Even 2000 years ago, in a culture far different from our own, the Apostle Paul felt compelled to instruct the church not to spend their energy meditating on things that are not lovely, pure, excellent, worthy of praise, etc. Rather, he instructed the church to choose to focus on the good and beautiful. Why? Well, you’ve heard the phrase: “You are what you eat.” That’s true but it’s no less true that: “You are what you think about.” 

Do you want to be a joyful, faithful, courageous and Christ-exalting Christian? Then don’t bathe your mind in messages that constantly shout about all that’s wrong with the world. Stay informed. But choose this day to focus on the good, the true and the beautiful. You’ll be surprised what a difference it will make in your own soul and how that will equip you to be a blessing on others.

Caring for One Another:

As always, please make your needs known by contacting the church office or contacting me directly. I am slowly trying to contact each Ebenezer household by phone just to make sure everyone is okay. I think everyone has a right to an awkward phone conversation with their pastor during these days of isolation! But if you have needs don’t wait for my call. We are a family and we will love and care for one another during these unusual times. 

Grace and peace to you.

Pastor Jason