isolation

During this time of social distancing and self quarantine (phrases that have suddenly become common in our society), many of us feel isolated and alone, especially those of us who live alone or just with our spouse this can be a time of loneliness or even boredom.  Many of us have been cut off from our social support systems like church, work, going out to eat or just hanging out with friends.  Many of us have been holed up in our homes for days or weeks and though we have phones, social media and trv to stay in touch with the world; it just isn't the same.  I've spoken with many of our older members who feel alone or even bored during these strange days.

It got me thinking about someone in the Bible who was isolated, even more than us right now.  Jonah was swallowed by a big fish and spent three days totally alone (he didn't even have facebook to scroll or cable news to watch)...and yet, he quickly realized he was not alone at all; he had God with him.  Jonah spent his isolated time in prayer and I thought maybe his prayer would be helpful to you today.
 
"To the roots of the mountains I sank down; the earth beneath barred me in forever. 
But you, Lord my God, brought my life up from the pit.
When my life was ebbing away, I remembered you, Lord, and my prayer rose to you, to your holy temple"  Jonah 2:6-7
 
The good news from Jonah is that no matter where you are (even the belly of a fish or your living room), God is with you.  The church was never a building, it was always the people of God.  So when Jonah tells us that his prayer rose to the temple of God it was because God is ALWAYS on the throne no matter where we are or who we are with.
 
God is with you today.  You are not alone.  You are not forgotten.  We are the church, we will always be the church, and our prayers are still rising to the throne of God from our isolation or our self quarantine...He hears you, He sees you, He loves you.


 In Christ,
Pastor Scott
 
P.S.. During these days, if you are in need of help, prayer, food, toilet paper...please let us know so that we can care for you or connect with you.  Email us at [email protected] to let us know how we can bless you!