Enduring Faithfully through the Remainder of 2021

Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him. (James 1:12)

The global coronavirus pandemic has frustrated our summer plans last year. As we approach the beginning of summer this year, though, we look forward to participating in typical activities: camps, sports, work, even church. Your elders have been prayerfully seeking to shepherd you through this strange season of life. Last year at this time, we, the elders, encouraged you to trust the Lord, knowing the coronavirus restrictions would pass. Now that much of that is behind us, how shall we move forward? The same way we did at this point last year: remaining steadfast under trial. To be sure, the pandemic is not the only trial we will face. The question facing every Christian, every day is: “How will we fare?” Let me encourage you in several ways.

First and foremost, continue resting in the Lord. He is sovereign, wise, good, and faithful. None of what has happened has taken him by surprise. And nothing that happens is wasted. Our sovereign Lord will cause all things to work together that we may be conformed to the image of Jesus (Romans 8:28-30). Instead of complaining about the trials we are facing, the Bible reminds us to ask for wisdom to endure through them (James 1:5-8), so that our steadfast endurance may have its full effect, “that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing” (James 1:4). High Pointe, let us rest in the Lord and endure faithfully under trial.

Secondly, if possible, plan time away with your family. You need to find ways to rest, to get away from the daily pressures of work and the daily demands of life. Summer provides natural rhythms in our calendars when we can plan time(s) away, so take advantage of those rhythms. You may think you cannot afford a vacation, but you can easily take day trips to parks, plan a staycation, or spend a family weekend camping. Be creative! And make some memories! I always enjoy it when Jeanine and I visit other churches during vacation. It is humbling, restful, and encouraging. It also makes me even more thankful for our High Pointe family!

Thirdly, though the coronavirus altered our ministry calendar and activities, we continued to be the church. By God’s grace, we are now in our normal summer schedule, and we look forward to regular ministry in the fall. For now, though, let me remind you that our summer church-wide Life Class begins this coming Sunday, June 27. This class will help you better understand the doctrine of baptism and the Lord’s Supper. Also, we look forward to our July preaching series once again. We always look forward to hearing the same gospel from other brothers. Also, let us continue taking advantage of every opportunity the Lord gives us to speak with our neighbors, friends, family, and co-workers about Christ, and let us invite them to join us for a Sunday gathering. Pray that the Lord would allow us to see much fruit from our evangelism efforts.

Finally, let me remind you that we will still have the same budget needs. The elders thank the Lord for your sacrificial generosity during this year already. Thank you, High Pointe, for your continued faithful, sacrificial, and generous giving. Let’s continue to practice that generosity for the remainder of 2021. There is still much to be done for the glory of God, the spread of Jesus’ name, and the good of our neighbors. I pray that you and your family are experiencing a joyful and blessed summer and that the Lord would continue working in encouraging ways at High Pointe!

Love,
Pastor Juan