Dear Members and Friends of IBCZ,
For all of us, this is a time of unprecedented change. We have had to abandon our normal routines regarding work, school, entertainment, socializing, and worshiping. Change can be both disruptive and challenging, especially when these changes affect almost every aspect of our lives. At times like this, we obviously need to be flexible, and even more important, it is good for us to remember what hasn’t changed and will not change.
Hebrews 13:8 reminds us, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” Amidst the swirling change we are adapting to, that is the one permanent truth we can hang on to – Jesus is always the same. That means His love for us has not changed. His grace to us has not changed. His promises have not changed. His presence with us always has not changed. In the midst of all this change, we can count on that truth. We are assured in Ps. 46:1, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” No tribulations of this world could ever change that. God is always abundantly available to us. So even in this challenging time, we can live with that confidence.
One resource you may find helpful at this time is from LiveWay Ministries. This is especially for families. It is called LifeWay Kids at Home, and is a free resource that allows kids and families to watch Bible story videos at home while we are practicing social distancing. To access:
Step 1: Go to digitalpass.lifeway.com
Step 2: Login or create an account (free)
Step 3: Click the LifeWay Kids (or Preschool) at Home icon on the main page of Digital Pass
They also have some mini-movies and micro-shows. Scroll down to the bottom of the home page and look for them in the Kids section. Content will be updated weekly as needed. Lifeway is making this free to all churches and the families they minister to.
Finally, as we continue our reading of the book of Philippians, this week we are in chapter 3. A few questions to consider:
- 7 – Paul came to realize that the things he had previously considered as gain he now viewed as loss for the sake of Christ. Are there some things in your life you once considered as of great value but now you see as of little or no importance in light of experiencing all Christ has for you?
- 13-14 – Paul writes that he forgets what is behind and presses ahead toward the goal. What things from your past do you need to forget, to leave in the past, so you can move forward in your walk with Christ?
- 17-17 – Paul encourages the Philippians to “keep your eyes on those who live as we do,” for there are some who are enemies of the cross. In other words, Paul is highlighting the importance of choosing wisely which role models we follow. Do they lead us closer to Christ and growth in Christlikeness, or away from that? Who are some individuals you look up to and seek to follow their example? How have they influenced you?
I look forward to being able to see all of you again – soon I hope!
Grace and peace,
Pastor Bob