Greetings to all my Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

It's a beautiful, sunny morning as I write. Another day that the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it. As we continue to move through some of the relaxed measures of our responses to the COVID-19 viral pandemic, we can see that some businesses are back to work, more institutions are carrying out their responsibilities, and more traffic is out and about. But this is not a time to let our guard down. We need to continue to practice those measures that will keep ourselves and others whom we may be in contact with safe, particularly those who would be more susceptible to the serious effects of the virus.

Today, I would like to reflect upon the confidence and courage of faith that the Apostle Paul describes in his Letter to the Philippians. He was writing from prison, incarcerated for proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ. And yet from his place of imprisonment, he continued to share the Good News, and expressed his deep and faithful concern for the churches and all his sisters and brothers in Christ. No matter the circumstances, good or bad, Paul remained confident in faith and encouraged others to stay steadfast in their faith in all times, favorable or not, and not to be adversely intimidated by the darker side of events and happenings.

Paul writes first about his own situation. He asserted, "It is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be put to shame in any way, but that by my speaking with all boldness, Christ will be exalted now as always in my body, whether by life or by death" (Philippians 1:20). Paul was determined to share the Gospel no matter to what might happen to him, as he added, "For to me, living is Christ and dying is gain" (1:21). he understood that he needed to press on with such confidence in order to be available in the flesh for the Gospel proclamation to which he was called.

Paul then moved to encourage the church to exhibit its faith and faithfulness, even in his physical absence. He exclaimed: "Only, live your life in a manner worthy of the Gospel of Christ, so that, whether I come and see you or am absent and hear about you, I will know that you are standing firm in one spirit, striving side by side with one mind for the faith of the Gospel, and in no way are intimidated..." (1:27-28). Paul knew that it would not be easy to express one's faith in word and deed in difficult and challenging situations, but one could persevere in and through the acknowledged presence of the risen Christ and the steadfast support from the churches. He alerted them to this reality by adding: "And this is God's doing. For he has graciously granted you the privilege not only of believing in Christ, but of suffering for him as well" (1:29).

So hopefully, in times like we are now experiencing, we can hold fast to the faith, "being of the same mind, having the same love..." (2:2).

Again, this week's worship will come digitally. So check in at www.felcmifflinburg.org or www.4bellschurch.com or either congregation's Facebook page.

Stay safe and safe. Blessings and Peace,

Pastor John