Caring for Our Community: Your Response Counts
Michele Carter
Over the last couple of days my office view has been a little different, yesterday in front of the fire, this morning out in the sunshine and at other times by the window trying to find an internet signal (yes, our WiFi is again down!) whilst socially distancing ourselves and still getting on with the overall caring for church that we do week in, week out.
This morning I was joined by these little guys, totally unaware I am sure of all that is going on in the world right now… they were totally satisfied and enjoying the warm sunshine at the beginning of the day.
I was reading Psalm 90:1 earlier… ‘satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days.’
Let’s get our satisfaction from being in God’s presence every day and allow, whatever our circumstances, his strength and love to shine through to those around us both inside and outside the church.
The Church has never been the building, always the people and this is so evident now as we hear incredible stories from many of you saying how you have been blessed by people helping out and how you have loved all the online community that is happening around our services and Connect Groups. We have a whole range of things starting online in this season to help you and your family and to help us all be salt and light wherever we are , so make sure you keep connected.
We are right now, all called to be the Church, and have the opportunity like never before to be bringing the kingdom of heaven to earth.
“So what can ‘we, the church’ do to help?” I hear you ask.
Well, firstly, we want to encourage you to get involved in helping your neighbours, the people who live near you. Take a moment to see if you can get shopping or help out those near you who are vulnerable and self isolating.
Secondly if you have time and are well, many organisations are asking for volunteers. The NHS are asking for volunteers to help with the vulnerable, food growers will need staff for harvesting vegetables, and Age Concern are asking for volunteers to help practically. There are local online groups you can join to find out what is happening in your area. Follow these link if you’re are interested:
Thirdly, we are so very grateful to the NHS and others on the frontline. From social workers, hospital workers, police and more and we would love to make their jobs easier and bring them some love. You may have seen the posts around already encouraging us to donate deodorants, shower gels, hand creams, easy meals (e.g. pot noodles) and high energy snacks to the NHS and we want to make it possible for you to donate these items and whatever may be needed. We have set up a facility for you to give to Valley Church’s People Matter COVID-19 response electronically and if you would like to get involved you can give online. We will then distribute them through the incredible people in our church who are currently out in our community.
Lastly, bring joy! Send a text, post a funny meme, video call someone, encourage that mum who has suddenly—as well as being everything else—is now also having to become a teacher! As we are ourselves satisfied by spending time with God, we can share His love with everyone we meet. We can be the encouragers, the joy bringers, the peacemakers and hope-filled ambassadors of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Whatever we face, our eternity is secure and we can bring light to the darkness.
We love and appreciate you all and love doing life together. Let’s keep encouraging each other and helping put a smile on people’s faces wherever we go.
Much love,
Michele x