I had the opportunity this week to continue building up the resources we have for online worship. Testing of equipment that I knew would work together, yet still needed to see in action to understand the fine details with only experience can reveal.

It struck me later on that day that my joy at success with the equipment was made necessary only because we cannot meet in person. That sad state which we find ourselves in is not overcome by the little successes of the day.

And yet, my smile as I saw things come together was real. I even called Sue Bentley over and showed her the devices all working together.

The question of how do we continue to live our lives while a person dies from the pandemic every six and a half minutes is daunting. Is my own safety enough? Where is God calling us to be and do right now? When will this threat end? Does a feeling of guilt need to accompany any happiness until the pandemic ends?

The promise of faith not that we will be given answers to all our questions. Rather it is a promise that there are answers and God holds them. The faith the God keeps with creation is one of enduring love. We know this is true because of Christ. In that truth and love we can rejoice.

We can rejoice. Meaning to be actively glad. To respond with heart, mind, body, and voice to the good that happens around us, when it happens. Like a birthday in Lent, there should be celebration.

So as we continue walking in our faith we can be joyful in the moments meant for that and sorrowful too when the time comes.

In hope and peace,

Deacon Chip