In a relationship, you are either emotionally close or distant to another. Sometimes we can pick up with old friends exactly where we left off years ago. In other cases, time apart means that a once-close friendship is no longer the case. For many people national politics caused serious riffs in relationships! Abiding friendship is a challenge! We can live physically close to others but remain “in our own little worlds” distant and apart. Meaningful, close relationships take nurture, attention and effort. And “it takes two.” These days relationships can be strengthened by communication that is in person or by text, zoom, phone call, letter or social media. It’s amazing how many ways we find to connect with others in order to keep up with them and strengthen our ties.
Many of us have worried since the closing of the church building in March whether APC’s members would remain faithful and connected as church worship and work “went digital”. Would we “abide with Christ” or would this time be an excuse to drift away, lose interest and grow cold? The virus, we know, would cause much isolation but we wondered: what would it do to our faith and our church?
As we conclude a challenging 2020 and look ahead with hope to a new year, I thank you for abiding and persevering. I applaud your faithfulness and your continued connection to ministry and the church family in these months! I pray you’ll remain patient and faithful, hopeful and engaged, connected and generous. That’s at the forefront of my gratitude, my hopes and prayers these days. The virus has tested us…and you are being found faithful! Alleluia!
