Month: July 2020

Upson Downs 7-30-20

Summer is racing by with no resolution to many of our modern dilemmas: worldwide pandemic, social unrest, economic challenges, remote work and school. There is no end in sight, and it’s easy to get caught up in the politics of the day, or look for magic solutions. We believe that Jesus really is the answer, but what does that mean in a practical sense?

We believe that Jesus really is the answer, but what does that mean in a practical sense?
Regan Read

We at Church of the Servant-King are wrestling with these very questions, challenging ourselves to greater faithfulness in unprecedented times. The politics of Jesus: radical forgiveness, loving your enemies, life laid down for others, uncompromising faithfulness, sacrifice, loving God-these are timeless truths. In light of this, as Francis Schaeffer poignantly asked, “How shall we then live?”

Rather than be utterly paralyzed by the overwhelming weight of God’s call on our lives, we strive to at least be faithful in small things, which Scripture tells us, will enable us to be faithful in grander achievements. Accordingly, we have expanded our Thursday night Zoom Bible Study, reaching out more purposefully to our community, loving the lonely through calls, notes, and encouragement.

Experiencing digital connections with Zoom at a recent Bible Study.

We are beginning an online forum with church leaders, seeking an ecumenical dialogue and partnership regarding how to love the world in turbulent times. We are ever more aware of the need to break down barriers and are working with a large sister congregation to embody the truths we say we believe. As we take nightly walks, we have an increased burden to greet our neighbors and make friendly connections. Community building is a call on all our lives.

Enough for now! We hope you stay well and encouraged, and, as always, we appreciate your prayers and feedback.

Tags digital connections, encouragement, online, Zoom

Hospitality Our story Updates

Upson Downs 7-22-20

Upson Downs 7/22/20

Well, it’s been an exciting week! Of course, life in the Kingdom should always be exciting, challenging, daunting, and life-giving. This week has been especially so since both of our expectant mamas have been experiencing high blood pressure, with concerns for the babies’ and moms’ health the subject of many prayers.

Currently, Mary and Cassidie are in a bit of an uninvited contest over who will deliver first! We will keep you posted. During Covid times hospital protocol has drastically changed, so obviously the expectant dads will need extra prayers too. Looking back makes one realize the awesome privilege it is to be a coach, support, and partner with mothers and fathers in the labor and delivery process.

Everyone needs encouragement and appreciation, a cup of cold water in Jesus’ name.

We are continuing to seek new avenues to reach out to our neighbors, essential workers, and friends and relatives who are experiencing isolation, uncertainty, and suffering from lack of vital connections. We strive to “see” those around us, always reminding ourselves to “above all hold unfailing our love for one another.” Some small ways we are putting this into practice is providing drinks and snacks for hard-working delivery people and mail carriers. We’ve had several “thank yous” for such a minimal effort on our part. Everyone needs encouragement and appreciation, a cup of cold water in Jesus’ name.

Thanks for reading our updates, for your concern about our life, filled with ups and downs, but life abundant. Stay well, and keep us in your prayers.

Regan Read

Tags appreciation, babies, family, hospitality, welcome

Blog Our story Updates

Upson Downs 7-15-20

COSK web logo We had an eventful week with covid tests (negative,) 2 week quarantines, early labor (no baby yet,) virtual baby showers, and a couple folks back to work. (Whew!) We stay busy, even when “on break.” We often forget how blessed we are to have each other close by every day, maybe taking for granted too often that we are really not alone. All our needs are being met, and then some.

We are beginning our new kid-care schedule, anticipating two new imminent arrivals, working together to care for our kids. We know that our Celebration of the Children will look different this year, as does pretty much everything in the pandemic era. This will be Connor’s last CoC, and we are strategizing to make it special for him in particular.

Scott and Sally continue in Bible studies with Anne, while in our own studies we are examining Luke 16 and Matthew 25. Our teacher promises a reward if we capture the particular parallel he has in mind. We continue to consider what it means for us to have “buy in” or “skin in the game” with respect to the church. We believe it’s essential to be “all-in” for Christ and His body here on earth. But it’s a daily re-commitment to our promises, even when we don’t feel like it. We pray for resilience, steadfastness, and courage every day.

Our back yard is starting to look normal again, instead of some strange trench labyrinth. Lots of toil and sweat has gone into this project. Thanks to all the diggers, plumbers, trash collectors, dumpster runners, tilers, painters, and the rest. Take your ease…until the next project! We get by with a little (or a lot) of help from our friends, and most especially from our gracious Lord who is faithful, whose mercies are new every morning, and who provides us with marvelous comrades every day. Until the next time, stay well and encouraged in Christ. Keep us in your prayers.

Kind regards, Regan Read 7-15-2020