As the church enters a period of exciting new possibilities of ministry beyond the church walls, let us connect in renewed ways.
The term “self-isolate” is a very difficult one, but here we are. In the spirit of our brotherliness and sisterliness in Christ, we don’t want anyone to isolate or exclude anyone.
Of course, we want everyone to take care of themselves and others. We are all used to the idea of staying at home for the sake of health. We want to watch over one another with love. The commandment to love God and your neighbour as yourself is best practised in reverse order. Love yourself first. You are number one and therefore be safe yourself. This is not a selfish thought.
If you can love yourself and be gentle with yourself, you will better be able to love and look after and provide support to your neighbour. As we are advised on aeroplanes, in case of emergency put your own mask on first before you assist others. If you don’t, you will not be able to help others. If you love yourself and your neighbour, you are expressing your love of and for God. This is true spiritual devotion.
Worship centres are closing. This is the beginning and deepest form of Church and communion and community. Let us keep in constant touch with one another, especially checking on our elderly folk and those who are vulnerable over the phone.
Let us keep in conversation and communion with each other. Live in the confidence that God is with us and desires fulness of life for all.
Assurance of God’s Protection. Psalm 121:1-8 (NRSV)
1 I lift up my eyes to the hills— from where my help will come?
2 My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.
3 He will not let your foot be moved; he who keeps you will not slumber.
4 He who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.
5 The Lord is your keeper; the Lord is your shade at your right hand.
6 The sun shall not strike you by day, nor the moon by night.
7 The Lord will keep you from all evil; he will keep your life.
8 The Lord will keep your going out and your coming in from this time on and forevermore.
Your friend and Minister,
Rev. Adam Nyawo
(Minister for Hounslow, Heston and Chiswick Methodist churches)