One of the themes this past year of 2021 has been “agility,” adapting to changes and unknowns. It seemed that 2020 was difficult because there were many questions about the pandemic. This past year, it seemed more unexpected issues came up, like the COVID variants, heat dome, wildfires, atmospheric rivers and floods. Just hearing about these extreme conditions and issues raises anxiety, whether they directly affect us or not.
When it’s difficult to deal with things we can’t control, I’m reminded of this verse in Philippians 4:6-7:
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
We have gone through ups and downs this year at Resonance Church. Though we are not able to solve all the issues we face, we can control how we respond to them. Since March 2020, the Resonance leadership team (which includes our elders and staff) has been meeting regularly, sometimes a few times a week, to stay on top of changes and orders from our Provincial Health Officer, and seeking God through prayer to help us look after the spiritual health of our members.
It’s been difficult for members to connect primarily through virtual channels with each other, so we can’t take for granted the opportunities to meet together in person. For the past two months, it’s been wonderful to see both familiar and new faces (even though we can’t see you smiling under your masks) on Sundays at our Lansdowne Mall location. We thank God for providing this new space and a smooth transition to relocate there to relaunch our worship services in person. We look forward to doing more to build up the church while considering everyone's safety.
We’re so grateful for all our servant hearts, whether it’s leading and teaching upfront or quietly making things run smoothly behind the scenes. Each and every person’s contribution makes a difference in engaging and serving our community.
As we look ahead, the 2022 year will likely bring new challenges that could impact us in all aspects, whether it’s mentally, physically, emotionally or spiritually. Despite all of this, remember that the Lord continues to walk with us and there’s a greater purpose behind His plans. That’s what we need to hang on to, as we cannot worry about solving these big problems on our own.
“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28)
“Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:13-14)
May our Amazing God, Everlasting Father and Prince of Peace be with you all!