My Brothers and Sisters of Christ Church:
It is over 24 hours since we received the election results. At this time, I wanted to reach out to all of you. I wanted to let you know that I love you. I want you to know that you are also held by a love that “wilt not let you go” even in the most difficult and challenging times. While some of you may be celebrating, some within our church and community are feeling grief, fear, anger, relief, exhaustion, shock, or maybe feeling nothing at all. I would ask that we hear the words of Proverbs 24:17 “Do not gloat when your enemy falls; when they stumble do not let your heart rejoice.” The fact is the leadership of our country may have changed but the work we are called to do has not.
I also want to remind you that we are called to walk together as brothers and sisters in Christ, comforting and strengthening one another in love. Romans 12:15 encourages us, “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” We are invited to hold space for each another’s hopes and fears, to listen, and to grieve alongside each other. In 2 Corinthians 1:4, we are reminded that God “comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.” Psalm 46 assures us that God is our refuge and strength, our ever-present help in trouble.
As we journey forward in the coming days, and months, I would encourage you to extend grace to each another, speak words of hope, and draw near to those who are feeling anxious or uncertain. As your pastor, I want you to remember that I love you and I am here for you. If you need space to talk/rant/vent/rejoice/lament or to discuss anything, no matter what, please know that whatever you feel, you don't have to feel it alone. Please do not hesitate to reach out to me.
Our unity in Christ is a testimony to the world of His love, peace, and faithfulness.
May we join hands to build God’s kin-dom here on earth, showing God’s love through acts of kindness, understanding, and mercy. May we encourage each another, bear each other’s burdens, and hold fast to the eternal hope we have in Christ. In every season, God remains faithful. Together, let us be a light that reflects His unchanging love.
With Love and Strength,
Pastor Craig
