Circumstances sometimes dictate that the leadership here at Choctaw make the decision to postpone or even cancel one or more assemblies of the church. This is always a difficult call for those of us taking part in making the decision, simply because we take every assembly of the Lord’s church seriously.

I want to address three specific considerations that are at the forefront of these decisions regarding our regularly scheduled times of assembly.

First, is our obvious desire that every member be spiritually fed and encouraged in the faith on a frequent and regular basis. Each of our assemblies, promises to fulfill this desire to some degree, and so to forego such a time of spiritual enrichment and shepherding is no small matter. Jesus told Peter three times, “Feed My sheep” (John 21:15-17). We in turn, take this exhortation seriously.

Secondly, we realize that canceling assemblies may have the effect of minimizing their importance in the eyes of less mature members. We exercise care, therefore, because we would never do anything intentionally that would devalue fellowship, study or worship from their perspective or would give the false impression that we take a casual view of the meetings of the church.

Finally, we are under obligation to be concerned for the physical wellbeing of each member and their property. Logic and reason dictate that we consider the safety and welfare of our most vulnerable members. We know that if we “open the doors” it is likely that some who are most vulnerable will venture out to be with us. If common sense tells us that they should not be out and about due to the weather or other circumstances, should any of the rest of us?

Next week, Lord willing, Part #2.