Hello Bethel Church Family.
I hope you’re all doing well.
As most of you are probably aware, as of July 1st, facemasks are being required in all public indoor spaces in the State of Oregon.
I know for many of you, and I’m going to include myself in this, the idea of wearing a mask has been a challenge. I want to share a couple of portions from God’s word that have served as a guide for me and helped me navigate my decisions during this time. These may help you process things as well.
Philippians 2:1-4
“Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, 2 then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. 3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, 4 not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”
Titus 3:1-2
“Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, 2 to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone.”
What I have decided for myself, is that wearing a mask really doesn’t rise to the level of being a violation of my civil rights. It’s really more of an inconvenience than anything. And if it’s little more than an inconvenience, then I am willing to do it for the sake of public safety and out of thoughtfulness toward others.
Now whether you agree or disagree with the importance of wearing a mask, I think we can all agree, as believers, that we are to consider the needs of others and even put their needs before our own rights. So, I want to challenge us all; let’s make the most of a difficult situation. Let’s not take a position of fear, but also let’s not take a position of negativity. Let’s come together and joyfully worship the Lord and be fed by His word.
If you don’t own a mask, we will have some available for you at no charge. Also, if you are unable to wear a mask for medical reasons, you are not required to do so and we will not ask you why or pressure you in any way.
You will notice on Sunday, that some of the people on the platform will not be wearing masks when they are playing an instrument or singing or speaking. There’s an exception that has been made in the state regulations in those cases, plus it just wouldn’t be practical.
Listen church, I believe that if we will have a servant’s heart. Choose to serve others and put others first and take the path of love, God will surely be pleased with that and His blessing will be upon us.
I love you all. I’m on your side. We will get through this together. And let’s choose to have a good time doing it!
With love,
Pastor Tim