Greg Zanis passed away on Monday morning. Please keep Sue and their entire family in your prayers for strength to deal with their loss, for comfort and a renewed spirit in their love for each other, and for God's peace as they go through the days and weeks to come. Services will be private. Read more about Greg's passing at Northern Public Radio

As you've heard, our shelter-in-place order has been extended through May. I know this news may not have surprised us, but I also know it isn't what we have have been hoping and praying for. But we cling to our faith knowing that we are never alone. Psalm 23.4 says, "Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff they comfort me." Having faith in the darkest valley — during a global pandemic, for example — is bold. It's natural to feel fearful right now, but believers can have a bold faith and hope during a crisis because of who our God is.
He is never changing, even when our world does. (Malachi 3:6)

He is all-powerful, strong and able to do anything He wills. (Psalm 147:5, Romans 1:20)

He is all-knowing, having knowledge of everything past, present, and future. (Isaiah 46:9-10)

He is faithful and always will be. (2 Timothy 2:13)
And He is so much more. He is beyond what we can conceive in our limited human minds. His purposes and promises are sure, even when we don't understand them. Even when we aren't sure where He is or what He's doing.
As Charles Spurgeon said: "God is too good to be unkind and He is too wise to be mistaken. And when we cannot trace His hand, we must trust His heart."
Again, trusting God and having faith during a pandemic is a bold stance. But do you know what else is bold? Coming before the Almighty God of the universe in prayer. Hebrews 4:16 instructs us:
"Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace in the time of need."
Come boldly to the God who is unchanging, always faithful, and never caught by surprise. Keep your faith in Him and let the knowledge of who He is calm your fears.

— Pastor Matt