“I thank my God every time I remember you, constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you, because of your sharing. I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion.” Philippians 1:3,6
In March 2020, I do not think we could have predicted where we are today. With the yearning that worldwide “shelter-in-place” practices would stop the spread of the virus, many of us believed the pandemic would be dangerous and deadly, but short-lived. Yet, with successful vaccines, we find ourselves still in the midst of a raging viral pandemic. Over 850,000 people have died from the infection just in the United States, and many of these deaths were avoidable. For too many of us, we lost people we love.
We are tired, weary, and troubled. In the midst of very hard, challenging days, will you do me a favor?
Will you close your eyes and hear a person living with a disability who participates in Rejoicing Spirits say, “You are doing good. I don’t like this time, but you have made it better. I know you care. You have reminded me that God cares. Thank you!”
Will you close your eyes and hear a parent’s voice say, “You are so important to my child. Thank you for offering them a light in the midst of this dark time. It is so good and important for them to be reminded of God’s love. Thank you!”
Will you close your eyes and hear a fellow church member say, “Wow, it is incredible how you have adjusted and endured during this pandemic and kept this ministry alive. You have been creative and it makes a difference. I support you and thank you!”
Will you close your eyes and hear me as your colleague, say, “Thank you. You are doing such an amazing service. Even though you are tired and worn out by this whole ordeal, you continue to push and strive to serve. Thank you for being the Church!”
Will you close your eyes and hear God’s voice say, “Beloved, you are doing well. I know it is hard and the days are long. Hang in there. Keep being faithful. Know that I am with you. Thank you for living out my love.”
Rejoicing Spirits is alive and impacting so many with the grace and hope of our God. Please be encouraged! Know that you are appreciated! You are not alone.
Rejoicing with you!
Pastor David deFreese
