Dear Fourth Church,
As you have likely heard, Montgomery County has reinstated a temporary mask mandate. Our medical team met this morning to discuss the implications for Fourth. While none of us prefer wearing a mask, we do so out of care for others. Thus, tomorrow you will see reminder signs at the entrances about wearing masks upon entry. We will also provide masks to anyone who forgets to bring one.
Although these are crazy times, we have the opportunity to demonstrate the grace of God to each other and to a divided world. The Scripture that continues to minister to me in these times comes from Romans 14:17-19. There Paul writes, "For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. Whoever thus serves Christ is acceptable to God and approved by men. So then let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding." I want to thank you for the ways you have embodied this exhortation from Paul throughout this difficult season. Please continue to pray that we remain a family of faith that pursues "what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding."
Grace and Peace,
Todd M. Smedley
