The Weekly Epistle 9/9/20

I saw an older man face plant as he stepped onto the sidewalk.  I turned around to make sure he was ok and realized that I just made an awkward situation for him even worse.  Awkward situations!  We all can relate.  Like the awkward silence on an elevator.  Or when you see someone you know later on in the same store after you already said, “Hi.”  Or when you say, “You too,” to the woman who wished you a “Happy Father’s Day.”  Or when you were the last one picked for teams in gym class.  Awkwardness!  
 
I have noticed awkward moments during this pandemic.  When I have been introduced to someone, it is awkward not to shake hands, but can only smile and nod.  For huggers, this is a time that really messes with you.  I heard someone say not too long ago that our common social greetings are gone for good.  I hope they are wrong!  There have been many studies over the years as to the importance of human touch.  
 
It has been said that “nothing eases suffering like human touch.”  Someone else put it, “The human touch is that little snippet of physical affection that brings a bit of comfort, support, and kindness.  It doesn’t take much from the one who gives it but can make a huge difference in the one who receives it.”  
 
This is why my heart goes out especially to those in nursing homes and other elderly care facilities.  Will you pause to pray for those people you know?  Perhaps you can drop them a note.
 
I urge you again to find ways to stay connected.  Community groups will begin later this month, so please sign up.  Also, I would encourage you, if at all possible, to join with your church family in person.  I know for some of you, that is still not an option and being with us through livestream does keep you connected on some level.  But I miss seeing you and you are on my mind a lot.
 
Last Sunday, we changed the second service to hopefully help some of you feel a little more comfortable attending in person.  Masks are to be worn to and from your seats and the two sections to the right as you enter the sanctuary are for those who choose to leave their masks on for the entirety of the service.  So, if you sit in either of those sections on the right, please leave your masks on even during the service.  
 
Also, nursery up to kindergarten age is provided during first service only.  We do hope that soon we will be offering EBC kids (likely during first) and coffee time between services from 10:00-10:30. Stay tuned for more details.  There are several other events happening so be sure to check out the announcements in this epistle.  
 
Blessings to you, church!  Keeping looking up for our God has never surrendered His control to anyone or anything!  Pastor Brian