Kindred, we now meet to worship, reaching out through screen and phone

We’ve been regularly attending Glendale City Church via a YouTube livestream since the pandemic shutdown began in March, and meeting up after church via Zoom instead of potlucks. It’s definitely not the same, though our church has done a fantastic job of making it work, and keeping it as normal as it can be given the circumstances. At the same time, I think it has given all of us a sudden new perspective on how much we had been taking for granted in our lives, and a sharpened sense of gratitude for our church family and the opportunities we have to share the trials and challenges of this strange new life. As I heard a familiar hymn being sung this morning, I realized with a jolt and a delighted laugh that some clever person had updated the lyrics for this moment. To the tune of Beethoven’s Ode to Joy, updated words by Thom Snell, you can enjoy it here:

(1) Kindred, we now meet to worship, reaching out through screen and phone.
Though we dwell in isolation, we know we are not alone.
Worshipping beyond our building, far apart, yet face to face,
We’re united as one Body, bound by Christ’s redeeming grace.

(2) Siblings, share a song of gladness, praising God and spreading cheer,
So that in these days of sadness we won’t be consumed by fear.
In this time of mass confusion, sickness, loss, and overwhelm,
Let’s encourage one another, hands not joined, but hearts are held.

(3) Friends, be gentle with each other, there’s so much we’re going through.
May this be a time for healing, holding space for grieving too.
Bodies, minds, and hearts are weary, anguish fills the aching soul,
But by God’s unfailing mercy, broken hearts will be made whole.