Gratitude and attitude are not challenges; they are choices. (Robert Braathe)

We are certainly in a time of challenge. We need to do everything we can to protect others, and ourselves but the numbers continue to grow: positivity rates; illness; hospitalizations; deaths. Hearts are heavy. That’s a reality. In order to not be weighed down by everything, let’s stop and concentrate on what we have and what we can do.

• We have a church staff that works tirelessly to communicate, reach out to those in the congregation and beyond, provide pastoral/spiritual care to ALL in need, create and sustain powerful worship experiences… and they do it with hearts of compassion and care! Thank you Lord!
• We have a vaccine(s) on the way! We have plans for how this will get distributed. We have hope there is help on the horizon! Thank you Lord!
• We have a health care system, which while overloaded and weary, carries on in the face of nearly insurmountable odds. Thank you Lord!
• We can protect our neighbors and ourselves by wearing masks, washing hands, distancing appropriately, and limiting our gathering.
• We can thank all of our essential workers… ALL of them…. for keeping the wheels moving.
• We can pray, write messages, make phone calls, volunteer as appropriate, and give in any way possible to support those who need support: mental, physical, spiritual.

We have choices, even when faced with dark times and the longevity of the challenges. We can make a difference with our words and actions. Be Well, Faith! Amen!