Dear family of CrossPoint Community,
I pray that this newsletter finds you well. I am substituting Pastor Nathan for the newsletter this week as Pastor Nathan and his family are on vacation for the next two weeks to visit their families in the midwest. Let’s lift their travel and visitation up in our prayers.
Last Sunday was the Independence Day of the United States. Because it fell on a Sunday, the town of Chelmsford held its annual Independence Day parade on Monday the 5th. The decision to have a parade this year was relatively short notice because of the uncertain situation of COVID development. The town of Chelmsford has been holding parades, instead of fireworks, for more than 50 years. Last year 2020, was probably the only year that this tradition did not happen. Even this year in May, the parade committee was unsure they could have one and sent out the only email asking past participants if they felt comfortable participating. If there were enough interest, then they will commence the parade planning. It turned out that that email was the only communication we had received before the parade.
The town parade committee did not provide transportation; however, thanks to brother Oscar Hsu, all the CBCGL participants could get to starting site McCarthy middle school in time. Despite the weather before and after the day of the parade, Monday was sunny and pleasant, suitable for the two-and-half-mile walk.
Here you can find more pictures brothers and sisters took along the way (You may need to sign in to your lowell.church account to view).
Compare to previous years; we did not have large turnouts. Brothers and sisters told me that they did not know about the parade until a week ago. Unfortunately, the parade committee was not confident if they could hold one this year. We would love to plan, but we have to work with uncertainty a lot of time. I was reminded by today’s devotional
13 For I, the LORD your God, hold your right hand; it is I who say to you, “Fear not, I am the one who helps you.”
(Isaiah 41:13, ESV)
During any uncertain time, do not be afraid or worry. God, the promise keeper, is the one who holds our hands and stays with us. For the LORD said,
6 Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the LORD your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.” (Deuteronomy 31:6, ESV)
24 The LORD bless you and keep you;
25 the LORD make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you;
26 the LORD lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.
(Numbers 6:24-26, ESV)