Pray for each other

Do not fear, for I have redeemed you I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. For I am the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior. (Isaiah 43) 

n recent months I have been very aware that many in our church family have been suffering in various ways, it seems to be a particularly heavy time with much illness and other difficulties. I have the privilege of serving you and therefore of knowing many of the things you are going through. I also see the ways you care for one another and uphold each other in times of need. A church family is just that, a group of people intimately connected to one another in Christ, who journey together through the joys and the sorrows of life.

Times of hardship and ill health force us to rely on each other more. That’s not a bad thing! We are not made to live in isolation from each other – we are made to be part of a family. That’s why we pray for each other, encourage each other and serve each other when we are in need. 

That’s why it’s so important to be connected with a small group or social group within the church. Our Sunday morning gatherings are great but can’t provide for all our spiritual needs. We need places where we feel carried and can help to carry others to the God who will always be with us.  

Grace and peace,

Anita Sorenson

Pastor for Spiritual Formation