This week.

But the righteousness that comes from faith says, “Do not say in your heart, ‘Who will ascend into heaven?’” (that is, to bring Christ down) “or ‘Who will descend into the abyss?’” (that is, to bring Christ up from the dead). But what does it say? But what does it say? “The word is near you, on your lips and in your heart” (that is, the word of faith that we proclaim)… Romans 10:6-8

This summer we have spent our Sundays hearing the stories of Genesis. An ongoing theme is that no matter how unfaithful the people are, no matter how much the people get wrapped up in their own plots and power, God remains faithful. In the reading from Romans yesterday, Paul reminds us that we don’t have to go up to heaven or into the abyss to find God, we just need to realize that God is already near to us.

Five months into a world reordered due to COVID-19 and facing the uncertainty of returning to campus and class, a lot of us feel powerless and isolated. It is good to be reminded that even in our anxiety and isolation, God is with us.

• In this uncertain time, have there been times when you found the word you needed nearby?
• What word is on your lips and in your heart now?

I hope you take some time this week to feel the nearness of God. If you want some ways to connect, check out the schedule below for the Zoom gatherings and online offerings.

–Kelley

Gathering Online: https://bit.ly/TCZoom

• Tuesday, 6 pm on Zoom
  Drop by to hang out or have a chat on Zoom.
• Saturday, 11 am Jonathan Daniels Pilgrimage Online
  You can watch the virtual pilgrimage at www.dioala.org/jonathandaniels or on Facebook.
• Sunday, 6 pm on Zoom
  Join us for worship on Sunday, August 16, at 6 pm on Zoom