“Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.” Proverbs 13:12

The truth of this proverb has been brought home to me by the reaction of people to the promise of eased restrictions in the coming weeks. In light of a very positive vaccination rate across the state there is the possibility that we will be able to meet with a few other vaccinated people in a park, beach, or other outdoor venue. It’s a long way from a full return to “normal”, but the people I’ve spoken to about this are over the moon about it! The partial fulfilment of our longing to be with others is a tree of life! It is one way that the heart sickness we are feeling in the continual deferment of our hopes is healed.

If such small, relatively insignificant freedom provides such hope, how much more should our freedom in Christ!? The response has been a reminder of the power of hope and the joy that even a partial fulfilment provides. As people of hope, let us keep our eyes open for the partial fulfilment of all that has been promised to us in Jesus - the restoration and renewal of all things - and take joy in what we see and experience of it.

I hope to see you on Sunday in our live-streamed services as we explore the power of a community on mission!

God bless!

Marc Rader | Senior Pastor