Reasons for Joy Today
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by Jon Buck
“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice!” Phil. 4:4
To be completely honest….
This past week caused me some moments of struggle in my Christian walk. I have been thoroughly enjoying church over the past few weeks as we’ve been able to meet indoors. My heart has been full, hearing the saints sing, and enjoying fellowship with God’s people.
In many ways, this past Sunday was a highlight - to sit, listen to Jason preach such a glorious text, and to sing to the Lord for all His goodness.
And then Orange County moved to the purple tier.
Suddenly, shifting back outside, thinking about weather, sound, distractions, childcare, children’s ministry, health safety, masking, etc.
And then, seeing all that has been happening in our state on the news. Lockdowns, curfews, hypocrisy.
With all this, I’ve been sorely tempted to grumble and complain! But, I’ve been rebuked by the Lord this week as well - rebuked to rejoice. And so, Below are a list of ten things that I’m rejoicing for today. It’s not the least bit exhaustive, but it’s where my heart is at.
A group of like-minded elders who have helpfully challenged, rebuked, and forgiven me this week as I’ve wrestled through the changes.
Freedom to worship the Lord Jesus Christ without persecution. (Yes, outdoors, and yes, with restrictions, but I’m rejoicing that we can still freely gather and worship!)
A wonderful facility with a lovely parking lot in which to gather and worship.
An amazing worship/AV/Sunday team with incredibly talented folks who can put together a worship set inside AND outside (including live-stream) at the drop of a hat.
Folding chairs in a portable trailer.
EZ-ups.
72 degrees and sunny on Sunday (at least for now!).
A flexible church family, willing to pursue righteousness and God’s Word together at the expense of comfort, whether indoors, outdoors, or via Live-streaming.
Zoom (yes, yes, I know - we’re all ‘zoomed-out’, but praise God for such cool technology!)
Fellowship in groups of less than three households!