Pastor David’s devotional for March 10, 2021

Psalm 136:23-26
He remembered us in our low estate
His love endures forever.
24 and freed us from our enemies.
His love endures forever.
25 He gives food to every creature.
His love endures forever.
26 Give thanks to the God of heaven.
His love endures forever.

I just returned from receiving my first dose of the Pfizer Vaccine, and I am excited! A year ago, I made the painful decision to close our facilities due to the pandemic, and to focus on virtual/online ministry. At the time, we had no idea how long the pandemic would last. At first, we hoped it would just be weeks until we could return to “normal,” but that dream soon gave way to months and even years. By fall, we knew we would need a vaccine, widely distributed, if the pandemic was going to be behind us. Many of us have prayed for months and months that a vaccine would be developed and administered soon. Today, I received my first shot. Many of you have already received both doses. Many of you will be receiving your vaccine in the weeks to come. We can see the light at the end of the tunnel! God has remembered us and answered our prayers.

I am grateful for the many doctors and researchers who have worked long hours in search for an answer—an effective and safe vaccine. We would not be here without them. I am also thankful for the many people who offered prayer support as researchers were hard at work. Often, God answers prayers through people; in this case, God answered prayers giving researchers the minds and wisdom and creative spirits needed to address the pandemic.

Recognizing how God works in this world, I returned home from receiving my first vaccine with Psalm 136 on my mind:
God has remembered us in our time of need! This past year was tough. But God heard our prayers. God’s love endures forever!
God has freed us from our enemies. With each dose of vaccine administered, Covid 19 losses its ability to harm us. God’s love endures forever!
God provides for every creature. Soon, everyone who wants a vaccine will be able to receive one. God’s love endures forever.
I invite you to join me in giving thanks to the God of heaven: God’s love endures forever! Praise God. Amen.

I hope to see in church real soon. God bless you!
Pastor Dave