Thoughts for today Friday 03/27/2020

1 Corinthians 12:27-31 New International Version (NIV)
Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. And God has placed in the church first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, of helping, of guidance, and of different kinds of tongues. Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? 30 Do all have gifts of healing? Do all speak in tongues? Do all interpret? Now eagerly desire the greater gifts. And yet I will show you the most excellent way.
  
Bonhoeffer writes: “The church is the presence of Christ in the same way that Christ is the presence of God. The New Testament knows a form of revelation, “Christ existing as church-community.”

  What he is saying is that the church as a community is essential and being part of a faith community is not an option for believers. Bonhoeffer says “The church is the presence of Christ in the same way that Christ is the presence of God.”
  
  In the coming weeks while we are not physically together, it is important to stay in community with each other through whatever means necessary. Phone calls, email, FaceBook, and other virtual means. My wife and I have been having video calls with our grandchildren during this time of social distancing. They all live within ½ mile of us but we are doing our part to protect each other at this time while still maintaining a connection.
  Stay connected to each other by whatever means you can. 

I will be recording worship again this week and posting it on-line. Watch for post on FaceBook, or an email with a link. Please subscribe to this blog. See the button at the top of this page. It will ask for your email, and anytime there is new content added to the blog (usually no more than once a day).
  
Prayer: Father God give us the common sense to do what is necessary to protect each other during this time. May our medical professionals be provided with what they need to protect themselves and effectively treat the sick. Lord, comfort those who are fearful during this time. Be with our first responders as they are on the frontlines of this pandemic. In Jesus Name. Amen

Peace and Blessings
Pastor Tom

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