Note from the Pastor

Hello UPC Family,

I wanted to take some time out of your day to remind you that we serve a powerful God and there is nothing more encouraging than knowing He is our protector and deliverer! Psalm 91:1-2 says, “Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”
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We are all aware about what is happening with the coronavirus and the overwhelming information we are receiving from all the news sources we watch or read. It is important that we remember not to be led by fear but to use wisdom, basic hygiene and pray above all else. Weare a people of faith and serve a mighty God, so trust in Him and PRAY. Pray against the virus. Yes, we can do that! Here is an example of a prayer we can all pray daily:

Father God,

Worry and fear are not of Your heart. 1 John 4 reminds us that perfect love casts out all fear, and we pray Your perfect love upon the hearts of all those who are burdened with fear of this virus. Lord, we know with no doubt that You are bigger than the threat of anything. Please comfort those who are living in fear, and free them from the bondage that anxiety creates within. Fully rain down the serenity that comes only from the Prince of Peace. We rest at the Throne of the Almighty such fears and cast them upon You (1 Peter 5:7), for Your burden is Light and Your Yoke is easy (Matthew 11:30). We know You cover us with Your wings (Psalm 91:4) so we do not fear any pestilences or plagues (Psalm 91:6).
You have given us authority to come against the enemy (Luke 10:19) and in faith, we command this virus to cease any further harm to people across the globe. No weapon formed against us can prosper and we ask for your protection for our homes, our families, our church and our city. We ask that you heal those that are sick and make yourselves known to them as their savior, comforter, healer and protector.
We pray for wisdom from the Holy Spirit so that we can be led by you during this time and not moved by any storms around us. We thank you for your faithfulness and will trust in you to be our guide every step of the way.

In Jesus’ name, Amen

Beyond prayer and keeping in faith, we must also use wisdom and protect ourselves as individuals and as a church. (Proverbs 1:7).
Here are some practical ways we can help keep this from spreading:
1. Wash your hands frequently for at least 20 seconds
2. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
3. Cover coughs & sneezes with tissue or elbow
4. Stay home if you're sick (yes, even from church)

We have soap at church to wash your hands and we will be setting up more hand sanitizer in all areas of the building. And please don’t get offended if someone may not want to shake your hand or hug you during this time. Wave, bump elbows and greet with smiles.
If anyone needs prayer, has questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Bless you and love you all in the Lord!

Pastor Temo