Dear Members and Friends of IBCZ,
It was so wonderful to join with fellow worshipers in the sanctuary this past Sunday! It was a joy not only to worship together but also to reconnect with each other during a time of fellowship after the service. It truly is a gift to be part of such a wonderful and diverse community of brothers and sisters in Christ. As we gradually ease back into a more normal church life (hopefully without further disruption!), let’s commit ourselves to nurturing our life, growth, and ministry so we can truly become all God desires for IBCZ.
Of course, for some it is still too early to gather in the sanctuary for worship, and I understand that. As you continue to worship from home through our live streaming, I pray you will feel united to the church, and know that we look forward to welcoming you when it is the right time for you to return.
Pastor and author Rick Warren writes, “He (God) created the church to meet your five deepest needs: a purpose to live for, people to live with, principles to live by, a profession to live out, and power to live on. There is no other place on earth where you can find all five of these benefits in one place.” Certainly, we all have these deep and basic needs, and these needs can be satisfied (not once for all but in an on-going and increasing way) as we fully participate in the life of the church. What a great gift God has given us! So, as and when we are able, let us make the most of all God offers us through the church.
Finally, just a reminder that we will observe Communion this Sunday. For those of you who will be worshiping with us online, if you want to take part in Communion, please have some bread and either wine or juice ready. We will do this following the sermon.
Grace and peace,
Pastor Bob