May 1st Update

Dear Church Family,

     Philippians 4:11 says, “Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.”  Paul made it clear that we are able to be content no matter the situation.  That is easier said than done.  I pray that in the midst of this isolation that you find yourself spending more time with God in His Word and Prayer; and letting Him settle your hearts and minds.
     The reopening of parts of Florida is beginning next week, and as that happens we are keeping a close eye on things as we plan for the day when we get to meet again.  With that being said, it is still going to be a while before we can meet again.  I want to let you know a few principles that will be guiding us as we make this decision.  First, we want to love and serve you well.   That means that all of our plans to gather have to be safe for you and our staff.  Second, we are going to submit to authority.  God has placed our government officials in their positions to make these decisions.  We are going to honor God by submitting to authority.  Third, God is still on mission. Even though we have shut everything down, God has not stopped working.  As a church we have engaged with the Kearney Center and provided food, gift cards, and supplies to them as they continue to minister to those who are less fortunate than we are.  We are going to continue to think of creative ways to follow God in the mission of making disciples and reaching the lost even though we cannot meet in person.
     I do believe that reopening will be a wide-ranging, gradual process dependent on individual’s needs and circumstances.  Even though we miss being together, we are going to trust God for His timing when we can gather again.  In the meantime, I want to encourage you to do three things.  1. Spend lots of time with God in the Word.  2. Connect with individuals in your Sunday School Class or Small group over the phone or through a video platform.  3. Pray for the unsaved neighbors around you and for our missionaries as they face this in countries with less robust health care.
 
For His Name Sake,
Fayez Ayoub