1 Thessalonians 5:11
I think this church would have been able to relate to what we are experiencing in our day -- the profound disappointment of not being able to gather. But much like us, they would have found ways to encourage and build up one another. One of the great joys coming out of this current reality for is in seeing the strength and resolve of Valley; your faithfulness in supporting one another and continuing the work of the church has been a blessing to me as I continue to hear story after story of our people just being the church.
I want to express my appreciation to our Leadership Team for their faithfulness in giving strong and consistent guidance during this unprecedented 'shut down'; we continue to enjoy a spirit of unity and joy as we work together. And I want to thank you, our people for staying in touch, for your prayers, support and words of encouragement, particularly during the time when Scott was hospitalized and he and Riley were recovering from the Covid - 19 virus. (We have received hundreds of emails and messages during the last few weeks.) We ought not be surprised by such encouragement for we have seen it over and over and over again in our time with you, but still there is an overwhelming sense of gratitude and appreciation for your love and support. Thank you, Valley! We miss gathering with you and cannot wait to meet again!!
Until then, we grieve what is lost, we wait, we adjust, we pray and we hope.
The Lord bless you and keep you. (Numbers 6:24)
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. (1 Thessalonians 5:28)
As we anticipate at least three more weeks before we will gather again, understanding that some may still not be ready to join in a more public way, I want to invite you to share a greeting, a message of appreciation, a word of encouragement or a prayer of blessing with one another. Use the form below or email me and I will post your comment.