In REV 21:5 God declares “Behold, I make all things new.” In this new year, we have an opportunity to make all things new in the life of our Churches. As we plan for the return to in person worship, how can we apply this concept?

In one sense, it will be good to return to the Church building. Many of us have been worshipping virtually through various video conferencing services. That has helped us keep the congregation together in worship throughout the pandemic that has become a barrier. Some Churches may have already returned to in person worship.

Churches can plan in person worship with new elements. How about an a Slideshow during the offering that shows how the money given is touching lives in the community. Or how about combining worship services together with a sister Church. Or maybe having a live shot from out in the community shelter to show how the Church is ministering to people in need.

As we return to worship, we have an opportunity to reinvigorate it and bring an air of excitement and joy. Joy in how God is touching lives in the midst of the travails of our society. Let’s seize the opportunity!

With the New Year of 2021 just around the corner, our attention turns to the future. It is appropriate this Advent Season to envision what that future might look like. (No prediction is 100% reliable, but some are more probable than others.)

With vaccines now available, the plague known as the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020 will come to an end. This will have a profound effect on everyday life for all of us. The New Year holds the promise of life returning to somewhat normal. Churches will be able to resume in-person worship services. Schools will be able to once again hold in-person class sessions. Businesses will reopen. Restaurants will return to full, in-person capacity. But let us not forget to pray for the families of those who have lost loved ones. The abrupt end of so many lives around the world has been devastating to family after family. We need to pray for one another as we come to terms with the consequences.