October 14, 2020 Message from the Rector

As I drove in this morning, I listened to a Bible Study with Dr. David Jeremiah. When the Israelites were preparing to enter into the promised land they spied out the land and the reports coming back were mixed: The land flowed with milk and honey "however, the people who dwell in the land are strong" (Numbers 13:28).
 
It was Caleb who encouraged the people to move forward and occupy the land whereas there were others who feared that they were not strong enough. This dilemma was overcome with faith by remembering the Lord's Spirit dwells within those who trust in Him.
 
The source of Caleb's faith was spoken by the Lord: "my servant Caleb, he has a different spirit and has followed me fully". Caleb's faith was demonstrated in his knowing who God is and his faithfulness in redeeming, guiding, protecting, and loving his people. Once you have come in contact with the living God's presence, you will not easily relinquish your faith after witnessing the power of God working in you and through you. Here, the key is to follow the Lord fully, by pressing in and by engaging in the Word of God in fellowship with your brothers and sisters in Christ.
 
It gave me encouragement when Dr. David Jeremiah said "In order to move forward, we take risks." If we are willing to take risks in moving forward in our lives, it is imperative that we keep God at the forefront of our thoughts and actions. Saint Matthews Church offers several opportunities for Bible Study and serving.
 
If you can't join us for In-Church worship, starting next week (Mon. 10/19 - Th. 10/22) Please!, Please!, Please! make a plan to swing by the Church office and pick up your Sac-Pac & Service Bulletin. Effective on 10/25 at the 11am service, we will return to using a printed Bulletin with an insert for hymn lyrics. This means you will need a bulletin and a Book of Common Prayer to follow along. This will move us closer to a regular worship structure because your screen view in Virtual Church will feature a broader picture as you refamiliarize yourself with the Liturgy by using the Prayer Book at home. We have plenty of Prayer Books so please pick one up when you come to pick up the Sac-Pac and the Bulletin.
 
I do understand that some people prefer to remain home as outdoor worship has moved indoors for 8am. Please bear in mind that we have designed both 8 and 11 services to require masks and for all seating has been designed for social distanacing until further notice.
Indeed, we have taken risks to move forward, and the Lord continues to bless St. Matthew's Church and the body of Christ, the faithful who trust in the Lord!
 
Keep moving forward you people of God!
Faithfully, Rags+