a year later

I know I am late to this, but I still struggle sometimes to comprehend that this pandemic has been affecting us for more than a year.  Regularly I am reminded of what happened a year ago this time and how much has changed and how much has stayed the same.

A year ago we were on lockdown, doing virtual church only.  I was preaching from my guest bedroom to a camera and then spending countless hours trying to edit, download, upload and post sermon and worship videos for our church.  

A year ago I spent many hours trying to call people from the church, and since they were all on quarantine, they had LOTS of time to talk (I am sorry if I didn't get to call you, I certainly tried but I know I didn't get to everyone).  

A year ago I lost my grandmother, and like many of you we had to try to figure out how to do a funeral with COVID restrictions, leaving even close family out of the process.

A year ago it was scary.  My wife was working with COVID patients at the hospital and we were washing our groceries in the garage before we brought them in! 

A year ago God was with us.  That's the thing I want to tell you and that I keep reminding myself of.  God was with us in the quarantine.  God was with us at the funeral.  God was with us when we were scared...and God is with us still.
 
Joshua 1:9 says, "Be strong and courageous.  Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."
 
God was with you then.  God is with you now.  God is with you always.
 
In Christ,
Pastor Scott