On my heart for SOMA

As we all settle in to this first full day of the shelter in place I wanted to let you know a few things and share are a few things.

First and foremost - "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble" (Psalm 46:1). I am reminding myself of this truth over and over and over. I'm reminding my kids of this truth over and over and over. And I want to remind you of this truth over and over and over. I even put it as the opening text on our website for all to see and remember.

Second - the leaders of SOMA love you and are praying for you. Please let us know if you have needs during this time. We are still the body of Christ and we will be the body of Christ during this time.

Third - we are still working on the details for a video/streaming worship service for this Sunday, March 22. Once we have all the details worked out we will communicate. While we can't meet in person we will find a compromise and take advantage of technology. It isn't perfect or ideal, but it is a great compromise.

Fourth - let me encourage all of us with the use of our extended time at home. Neal Brower sent an email this morning to our Western District Pastors and his words say it well:

With our new "social distancing" instructions, I encourage you to do a little more reading, more contemplation, more prayer, more phone calling, and, yes, I'm sure there will be a little more eating and TV watching as well! Let's anticipate that our gospel is always bearing fruit throughout the world (Colossians 1:6), because Jesus is always building his church (Matthew 16:18), and nothing can prevail against it, and the good work is being completed until the day of our great hope (Philippians 1:6)!

Fifth - here is today's "Wednesday Word" from Paul Tripp. Don't let the title discourage your from reading this article. It is a wonderful reminder about fear and how God has given us the ability to fear and it is a good gift from our good God. Please read and consider.

Because God is the God of all grace,

Paul