Dear St. John's Friends and Family:

Hebrews 12:1-2 offers encouragement: "Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross..."

These 14 months in the pandemic have been like a marathon! It's taking a long time! People are tired. We have lost some dear ones along the way. And the race isn't over! We remember that this journey has been much harder on some. We think of front-line workers who have stayed at it; of parents who have had to juggle work (or lack of) and on-line school for their kids; of those who have been isolated and alone. "Tis grace has brought us safe this far..." the song says! Thank God for grace! And for endurance!

We're still in this marathon! And it's not the only one. We are always dealing with the challenges of living and working together as a nation; and of finding hope and common ground with the rest of the world. Do we look to Jesus? Like the writer of Hebrews says?

If we would, I'm pretty sure we will find a way to welcome those who are 'outsiders'. We'll hear truths that challenge us and words that comfort us. We'll discover our role of being witnesses and servants. And in looking to Jesus, we'll be able to keep running the race that is set before us-which ultimately leads to life in His name!

Thank you for persevering with your church family too! Thank you for coming to worship as you get vaccinated, and for your patience with masking, and for your interest in how we work out Sunday School, and for your prayers, and for every way you pitch-in! This is an important time to be a church which nurtures relationships and connects us with the needs and gifts of the people around us!

Pastor Paul