Update 4

Hi folks

Time is passing and the restrictions placed on us by Government don't look like they're going to be removed 'any time soon', which is the phrase I keep hearing Nicola Sturgeon using. However, it is encouraging that steps are being taken towards planning and implementing a strategy for moving out of 'lockdown' into a 'new normal' for us all which will involve reduced social contact in some form or another. 

As we hear daily updates from the Scottish Government and the Westminster Government, I think we should also remind ourselves of the fact that COVID-19 can not and will not curtail or close down the Lord's will being done on earth as it is in heaven. We believe that and we need to pray it as well, just as the Lord himself taught us to pray. I see Jesus whose ministry was in no way diverted or derailed by disease, but rather he confronted it and dealt with it! May we do the same! 

It is perhaps timely that we remember our Mission and Vision as a church; our mission is to 'Go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you' (Matthew 28. 19-20), and our vision in achieving that mission goal is to be a WELL church which means that we strive to be a Worshiping, Evangelising, Loving and Learning church. In these days of unprecedented change we need to keep the focus for our faith as we try to adapt and change according to circumstances. So in everything that we do we still need to ask 'is what I am doing promoting worship, evangelism, love and learning? 

I miss meeting up with people; I miss meeting up with you but I am trying to make the most of the means available to me to make that happen as much as possible. Can I encourage you all to do the same? I am very encouraged by the way we are keeping in touch and let's not 'grow weary in doing good (in this way) for at the proper time we will reap a harvest of righteousness' (Gal 6.9). 

Take care, stay safe, and keep in touch, especially with the Lord, who is always available and alert to our prayers. 

God bless
Colin

Rev Colin L Macleod
Free Church Manse
Gairloch
Ross-Shire
IV21 2BH
01445 712371
07881 986038