TRPC Broadcast Email – Wednesday 25, 2020

During this completely unexpected health crisis, our strong desire is to “be the church” while at the same time protecting the health of our members and our community. We are looking at creative, virtual ways to help you grow spiritually during this time and keep you connected with Timber Ridge. Tonight at 6PM we will have an open forum on the Zoom portal for a non-descript fellowship time. Time to share our lives, joys and concerns. Time for shared prayer. You can connect by computer, tablet or by phone. Instructions will be sent later today.

For many of you, the current situation we are captive by can be a great opportunity for you and your family. If you have been “burning the candle” at both ends, perhaps this will be a time for you to slow down and spend more quality time with the Lord and with your spouse and children. I would encourage you to not waste this time. Read that book you’ve been putting off. Watch a Bible study together. Play games together. Find ways to connect with the hearts of your children and your spouse. This might be a good time to empty out that kitchen junk drawer. Sort through clothes, coats and shoes for charity. Plan a garden. Empty out a couple tool boxes. Learn to play chess. Plan a family vacation – and start dreaming about it now.

Finally, I would like to encourage you during these uncertain times to not succumb to the spirit of fear. Paul reminds us in 2 Timothy 1:7 that the Lord has given us “a spirit not of fear, but of power and love and self-control” (ESV). While the situation around us is ever-changing, we serve a God who “does not change like the shifting shadows” (James 1:17, NIV). Moreover, while these are difficult times, as children of God, we can know that “in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28, NIV).

My pledge is to keep you informed as more information becomes available. Please keep Timber Ridge, our community, and our nation in your prayers as we face these challenging days together.

Be joyful, knowing we reside in the Kingdom of God. And let us not fear but rest in the Lord “For we can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” (Phil. 4:13)

Blessings of Peace,

Pastor Patrick