Glorifying God Together, While Apart
“And do not neglect doing good and sharing, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” Hebrews 13:16
Have you been missing your church family and didn’t know how to connect with them during this time of “shelter at home?”
Are you looking for ways to minister to and bless your neighbors?
Here are a few practical ways you can show God’s love to those around you. . .
(Please keep in mind, perhaps all individuals may not be comfortable with each practice. We should be discerning and respectful of differing comfort zones, but it can’t hurt to ask!)
To connect with our church family. . .
Do you normally serve in the nursery, children’s Sunday school room, at the Welcome Center or as a greeter? On the day you would normally serve, give your fellow volunteers a call! Tell them you miss serving with them and ask them how you can pray for them.
Are you in an ABF, flock, or small group? Call one person from the group each day and share your favorite memory of them.
Envision yourself sitting in the Sanctuary. Who do you normally sit by? Give them a call or send them a card. Let them know you miss them!
If someone comes to your mind. . . do something with that thought! Call them, text them, send them a picture of your smiling face. . . intentionally try to bring a smile to their face.
Record yourself praying for someone and send them the video.
Are you going to the store? Are you passing someone’s home on the way? Offer to pick up something at the store for them.
Go for a “six-foot apart” walk with one or two others.
Do a “drive by” call (calling someone from the curb outside their home to wave while talking), or a “drive-in” visit (visiting from inside your car on their driveway.
Have in mind an answer when someone asks how they can pray for YOU!
Take a look through the Church Directory. Is there a name that lives close to you that you don’t know? Now would be a great time to introduce yourself!
Think of those in the body who may be on their own right now, or who might not be able to get out and about. Maybe call them and see if there’s anything you can help with or ask how you can pray for them.
In your own home. . .
Make a prayer request list for the fridge. Include a place for praises and a place for how God answers your prayers.
Parents, share your testimony with your kids. Tell them how you came to know Jesus.
Kids, do something to bless your parents today! Do your chores without being asked, obey the first time you are asked to do something. . . maybe even plan a “date” for them and serve as the waiter in your very own restaurant.
Challenge each other to make a list of everything you are thankful for.
For your neighbors. . .
Write an encouraging note on your windows or on your driveway. You never know who may walk by and see it!
If you are out for a walk, be sure to make eye contact and smile with those you encounter.
Send an email to local first responders and medical staff. Let them know you appreciate their work during this difficult time and let them know you are praying for them. Many local restaurants are offering opportunities to bless these workers with food and gift certificates. Ask them for the details.
Post an encouraging or uplifting thought on social media. How has God blessed you, and what has brought you joy?
Write a note to drop in their mailbox saying you are praying and would love to run an errand for them if it would help.
Invite the people on your block to a make-shift “neighborhood block party,” bringing lawn chairs to the ends of their driveways for a time to chat with one another across the street.
For those seeking ways to help meet the needs of our broader community, we will be collecting food for our local food pantry. Donations may be dropped off at two of our Pastor's homes (Brendsels or Worleys) where you will find a box on their front step labelled "Food Pantry." Our pantry is asking for donations of canned whole kernel corn, white rice, canned black beans, canned tuna, pasta, and mac-and-cheese.
We believe that God sees the entire timeline of the days we are experiencing. We believe that He will use all of these experiences for His Glory and our good. That is not to say that we won’t encounter discouragement, fear, or anxiety. If you have a need, please love your church body by sharing that need! If you’re thinking that it isn’t “big enough” to be a need, think again! Your family is here for you, and desires to bless you! Allow them the joy of blessing you!
Additional Resources:
If you have a practical need or prayer request, or if you are willing to help meet a need through a visit, phone call, or trip to the store, you can let us know by contacting the office below,
If someone in the body has a financial need, you can,