Hello Friends-

Most of us have been paying very close attention to the news on a daily basis for the past month, as information about COVID-19 changes by the hour. We know this virus is very aggressive. Many people are sick and dying. Our Governor requires us to shelter in place. This social isolation feels extreme to some, yet we know it’s important to lessen the spread.

Covid-19 is affecting all of us and changing the way we live our lives. Many people are working from home and trying to juggle caring for their children (who are not able to go to school or to childcare facilities), while still trying to get their jobs done, not to mention trying to navigate the newness of on-line learning for their children. Doctors, nurses, police officers, paramedics and fire fighters are on the front line risking their lives, while trying their best to save the lives of others. Many small businesses have been forced to close their doors and left their owners to wonder how long they can keep their businesses afloat. Millions of people have lost their jobs and are struggling financially, physically and emotionally. Many people are alone and feeling very isolated. Churches like Grace have been forced to lock their doors and worship virtually.

Personally, I miss my family. I miss my five beautiful grandchildren so very much. I miss them running to me and calling, Grandma, Grandma, Grandma as they jump into my arms for a huge hug. I miss you, my Grace family walking through our doors for meetings, Bible Studies or just to say “hi” during the week. I miss Worshiping together, as we connect and care for one another. I miss our friends and socialization with them. I give thanks for all the Grace ladies who have been sewing masks to help keep us safe. I give thanks for the people of Grace who I can simply call, and they will be right here to run an errand or deliver something for us. Truly, our lives have been forever changed. And through it all, I hope, and I pray.

As people of faith, we hold on to hope… Hope that this virus will soon end. Hope that our sense of community with one another will soon be restored. Hope that God has not left us to battle this virus alone. During these unsettling and very scary times, we can find our peace in the Lord. He is the only one who can effectively lessen our fears. We live in a fallen world that keeps us fearful, and yet, our hope is found in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

When I am troubled and in need of hope, I often look to the words of Jeremiah 29:11-14. May his words bring you hope today, and in the weeks to come, as the world as we know it continues to change.

For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the LORD, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope. Then when you call upon me and come and pray to me, I will hear you. When you search for me, you will find me; if you seek me with all your heart, I will let you find me, says the LORD, and I will restore your fortunes and gather you from all the nations and all the places where I have driven you, says the LORD, and I will bring you back to the place from which I sent you into exile.

Jeremiah 29:11-14

Blessings to you and your families as we face these uncertain days ahead.

Kris Miller