Gather…
A word that is on all the kitschy fall pumpkin-spice-inspired artisan signs in fancy fonts (that I used to make by hand myself!)...
It is a word that is warm and cozy... makes us think of soups and board games. It really is a lovely word. But, for us as believers, did you know it is also a mandate? We Must Gather! We obviously have been through a very challenging pandemic and there are still those who aren’t comfortable gathering in large numbers. That’s ok. We love you! Find the ways that you can still gather that fit inside the comfort levels you have.
I love Hebrews 10: 24-25:
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love and good deeds, not giving up on meeting together as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another…”
I want to ask you to GATHER this autumn season. (Can we also just take a quick sec in shock and awe to acknowledge that it’s fall in a matter of days?!) Do not forsake the gathering of believers - invest this Fall. Get involved. Come to our Sunday Gatherings. Bring your family. Bring your friends. Have people over to your home for a meal. It’s Godly. It’s sacred. And God can move in these spaces and places.
I remember a story my mom told me once of a time my parents went over to a friend's house for an evening of fellowship. She had recently been suffering with severe back pain. It wasn’t a particularly spiritual night or anything. They just had a good time with friends and their conversation was God-honouring. At one point, as my mom recalls it, the room seemed to stand still and she felt the Lord whisper to her, “This, this right here brings me great joy.” Instantly, her back was healed from pain she had been experiencing. They didn’t even pray! God was pleased and God did what He loves to do, bless his people.
God cares. He is with you when you gather. He’s with US when WE gather. May He be glorified in all we do this Fall. We thank God for you and are glad you’re a part of our CPC family.
With all the warm and cozy autumn greetings,
Pastor Laura
