We are the family of Christ

FOC Community,

Scripture reminds us in Romans 8:28:  "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose." (ESV)

With this in mind, I've been processing the good that can come from this pandemic. One of the primary benefits, in my opinion, is the opportunity to view this time as a "Mandatory Sabbath." What do I mean by this? I mean that we have an unparalleled opportunity to be intentional with our extra time; time to be with our Lord and to grow in the relationships we have with our loved ones and those around us, even from afar.

Often, I hear many people discussing the busyness of life these days. There is so much to do and so little time. Over the past week, this crazy pace has come to a crashing halt (for most of us.) Thus, let's be intentional in this new season! Let's spend time together, as the body of Christ, with Jesus! Let's make the most of this time, not just beat the boredom by watching TV or binging entertainment on streaming sites!

Here are some suggestions/ideas...

• Have you ever thought about holding your own at-home/online worship service? Why not pull up a playlist or YouTube on your TV (Apple TV or Roku, etc.) and take song requests from family members or friends? These could be VBS songs your kids enjoy, songs we know and love from Sunday worship at Family of Christ, or any song that draws you closer to God. Pull up the requested songs/lyric videos, and worship together! Then, take some prayer requests and/or read scripture together. Why not try to experience this type of worship together daily? Maybe commit to read through one of the gospels and/or different books of the Bible over the next couple of weeks! Discuss what Jesus did that you found to be incredible and encouraging - or verses in each chapter that stood out to you!
  
  
• Develop some new "time with Jesus" rhythms to your day. RightNow Media is full of online resources and Bible studies for adults, children, couples, and more. Share time together, growing closer to Jesus! For those who have older kids, contact me about getting access to some of the great resources from Axis! 
  
  
• Dedicate more time to being with Jesus. Have you ever looked into experiencing Lectio Divina? (Click the link for more info.) Have you ever devoted specific time in your day to quietly sitting in His presence and seeing what He might want to communicate to you? Spend some purposeful time prayerfully meditating on His Word!

These are just a few examples of ways you could intentionally connect with Jesus and your loved ones during this "Mandatory Sabbath." This is a time to learn and be creative together. Whatever way you choose to grow, we pray that you choose one! May we look back on these days, thankful that the Lord was present and in our midst!

(We know many people are suffering during this time. This email is not intended to make light of the situation but to make the most of it.)

Praying for healing, health, and growth in relationship with our Lord and Savior!

In His Grip of Grace,
Jeremy Hetzel
Director of Student Ministries