Scripture: Philippians 4: 6-7
“Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Reflection:
You do not have to be a detective to see that the world around us has been impacted in a big way. Everyone’s lives have been impacted in some way by Covid-19 regardless if they have experienced the virus firsthand. I can personally sympathize with those whose lives have shifted due to Covid-19. My classes at Nebraska Wesleyan have been prohibited from meeting in person and must continue online. The NCAA cancelled all championship competitions which means my baseball season has come to an abrupt end. I believe Philippians 4: 6-7 is a perfect passage to reflect upon while our world continues to change. In this scripture Paul reminds his followers to put aside their worries and place their faith in God. By placing our unending faith in God, we can reach a level of peace that surpasses our understanding of the world. In the case of Covid-19 it is important for us to place our faith in our government, public health officials, doctors and nurses, politicians, and most importantly God. I am not saying that we as a community should not remain proactive about our health, but rather we need to spend this time creating a deeper connection with God.
Prayer: Gracious and merciful God, I ask that you may find those who are struggling with our ever-changing world. Limitations and mandates continue to restrict and modify our normal routines. Panic and anxiety spreads more with each passing day as the total number of cases rises. I ask that you guide the hands of our government officials, doctors and nurses, public health officials, and the CDC. With your guidance we can come together as one collective community and strengthen our connection to you. Amen.
- Reflection and prayer by pastoral intern Josh Seifert
IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENTS
1. Since many of the volunteers at the food pantry at ConnectioN Point were UNL students, who have gone home, we are in desperate need of volunteers to help run OpeN Shelf for the coming week March 23-27. If you could volunteer to be one who helps oversee the food pantry, please call Pastor Beth at 402-413-0017. The food pantry is open 2-5 pm every weekday. We need help for Wednesday-Friday this week.
2. Also, if you are interesting in volunteering to help during the coronavirus by running errands, such as going to grocery story, the pharmacy, or the post office for church members who are especially vulnerable to the coronavirus, then please send us an email at ChristUMCHelps@gmail.com. Please give us your name and time availability. We will keep a list and let you know how you can help.