The new normal. I don’t particularly like that phrase. I am not even sure what it means. But it is used a lot as it relates to our present-day reality of the pandemic crisis. But what does that mean for the church? I have craved for the day that things go back to normal.
But should we go back to normal? Is that healthy? I can wish all I want for things to go back to normal in my home of the days when my daughter was 10. But my youngest is 16. And driving. And has a boyfriend. This is not “my first rodeo” and yet embracing the changes that come with parenting a 16-year-old don’t come easy. But that’s how life is. Whether it is in a family or in the life of a church we have to progress through one change after another.
The matter at hand is not about settling into a new normal, it is about change and progress. Is God using this pandemic to awaken us to new and different opportunities? I found the words from pastor Mark Sayers helpful. He said, “My encouragement for leaders at this moment who are feeling frightened, scared, or a loss of control is to step into this moment. This is an incredible moment- God wants to do something- so step into it.”
The truth is, if we stay stuck on normal, we will miss the opportunities God has placed before us. Life should not ever settle into normal. The goal is to progress through the changes in life.
This is why it is critical we are seeking the Lord for what it is He has for us in these days. Next Tuesday night, July 28 once again we will meet from 7:00-7:30 in the gym parking to pray as a church family. I cannot overemphasize the importance of this time of prayer and the expression of unity as a church.
I know that current events in the world can get you down. I know that any requirement to wear a mask can be frustrating. I know that not being able to see loved ones and friends because of this pandemic is hard. I know that Sunday morning is not the same. Let’s (and I speak to myself) get our focus off of getting back to “life as we knew it” to seeing the One who will make all things new. The Lord Jesus wants to be our sustenance. He is the Good Shepherd who will lead us, feed us, guard us, and bring us safely to our eternal home.
Cling to these words from Jesus’ lips, “In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart, I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). Yes! These are difficult times. But it isn’t a “new normal” we are looking for or getting back to normal but growing through these times and gaining a greater understanding of what God has for us in this world.
We may not like it but “it is what it is.” I don’t particularly like that phrase either!
Blessings to you, church!
Pastor Brian
Looking Forward
Sermon Direction
The Ins and Outs of Christian Living
Philippians 2:12-18
Last Sunday’s Sermon
Link to This Sunday Worship Service
Fellowship of Prayer
Join us Tuesday July 28th at 7pm for our Fellowship of Prayer in the gym parking lot.
Rain date will be Wednesday.
Annual Business Meeting
Save the date for our annual business meeting Wednesday Aug 26th
Financial review will be held Sunday August 16th at 9am in the Fellowship Hall. Zoom will be offered.
On Goal Picnic
In lieu of a picnic this year we are putting together snack boxes for the families on Saturday.
Please contact the office if you’re willing to help. Items can be dropped off at the church office by August 6th. Please call with any questions. 524-2277 or corianne@ebclaconia.com
On Goal Coach Meal Trains
We have two meal trains set up so you can sign up to provide meals for the coaches during the week of On Goal. If you have any questions, please contact the office or Betsy Weller. Details are on each link. Thank you for your faithful support to this wonderful ministry.
Coaches lunch meal train sign up can be found HERE
Coaches dinner meal train sign up can be found HERE
On Goal Soccer Camp
August 4th – August 8th Register today at www.ongoal.org
K-1st 9am-Noon $145 / 2nd-9th 9am-3pm $165
Family discounts and Laconia resident discounts are available as well as scholarships are still available.
Community Carwash
A free carwash for our community August 1st from 10am-12pm. Held off campus by our Local Outreach team to show the love of Christ. Help is needed, please contact Cheryl Hayes at 524-9774 or the church office at office@ebclaconia.com
Giving
You can continue to give either online on our website www.laconiachurch.com
Prayer and Praise
If you have any prayer requests or needs, please email Corianne at: corianne@ebclaconia.com