Dear Church Family,

This morning our hearts are full of many emotions. We are grateful that our church family is safe and to our knowledge has not been affected by the virus that much of the world is experiencing. We are mindful that the current circumstances will continue to impact our church body, community, nation, and the world for weeks to come. Because of these concerns, for perhaps the first time since the Harpeth Hills/Fairview congregation was established, we are not coming together on the first day of the week. This situation has been closely monitored by several of our talented staff and elders, and it was with an abundance of caution and a desire to respond appropriately to the safety of our church and community that we made this decision.

We all find ourselves in uncharted waters in many ways, one of which is sitting at home on Sunday morning, healthy, not singing praises to God, taking communion together, and enjoying the fellowship of our church family. An experience like this reminds us never to take for granted the blessings we enjoy and receive on Sunday mornings. It will also make our next time together even more meaningful. We encourage you to take time today, with family or alone, to reflect on God’s love for us, the strength we receive through Jesus, and the power we receive through the Spirit. Spend time in communion with Him through prayer, reading, and meditation. Depending on your life’s circumstances, let this be a day of thanksgiving, praise, or repentance.

The future is and has always been uncertain. When life is routine, we are under the misguided conception that we are in control of what we do, where we will go, and whom we will be with. Times like these remind us that we are not “masters of our own fate” but serve a God who is in control. We also remember that He is the one who loves us, cares for us, and is always with us. We can face the uncertain future with confidence because God is present in our lives. We are reminded of Paul’s encouragement in 2 Timothy 1:7—For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.

We can weather these unprecedented times with the confidence that our loving God will provide for us. So today, on a day when we are apart, let us all take time to thank God for who He is and look forward to the time when we will all be back together. Let us continue to remember those who were tragically affected by the recent storms and those whose health is being impacted by the pandemic.

Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you. —2 Thessalonians 3:16

Lovingly,

Your Shepherds