Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth, - Colossians 3:2
With all that has been going on the world, and even now, with our place in it, starting to open back up, I think this reminder from the apostle Paul is very fitting at the moment. I read a report in the paper, yesterday, that houses of worship were allowed to begin meeting, with some guidelines; such as everyone wearing a mask, and building capacity no more than 50%. However, even with these guidelines, The Holston Conference of the United Methodist Church will remain closed. As well as several other denominations, including our sister and brothers at the Sacred Heart catholic church. I understand the push for places to open, and the desire of people to gather and worship; yet, it is still more loving, life preserving, and caring to remain apart.
When we set our minds on things above, as the apostle Paul reminds us, we may realize that we have been out of the building for 9 Sunday’s now, but our worship hasn’t stopped. We have continued to be able to gather (around a screen) and sing to God, to hear the word proclaimed, and pray for one another. We see this happen not just for a few minutes on Sunday either, but we have shared in meetings, devotions, and readings. We have continued to be in mission and ministry, though we have been apart. While I know we would be excited for the opportunity to be “back to normal” we must also remember that our first call is to care for one another in Christ-like love, and that it may be best for us to remain apart for a little while longer.
When the time comes, and the information is shared with me, about St. Mark being open again, I will quickly and joyfully share it with you. Until that time, we will continue to keep our minds set on the joy and grace that God is pouring out each and every day. Let us continue to focus on the life of wonder and abundance that has been given to us in Christ, even as we remain apart.
Much love and grace to each of you as we make it through another week. Amen.
Grace & Peace,
Sam