There are lots of churches that have been able to put together either a video service or are live-streaming a service during the COVID-19 pandemic. At Graceview, we simply don’t have the ability to do that well. My Dad is known for quoting Clint Eastwood movies, and this line from Magnum Force applies: “A man’s gotta know his limitations.” There is wisdom, sometimes in knowing our limitations.

However, I would encourage you to go to the Presbyterian Church in Canada’s list of live-streamed and recorded services and choose a service to watch tomorrow morning.

I’d also remind you that I will be posting a video sermonette here, and you are welcome to view it as soon as it is live and to share it with friends and family. I’m hoping (HOPING!) that I will be able to have the sermonette ready to go by 10:30am, but I ask for your patience if it takes me longer.

If we were able to meet together to worship, at Graceview we would have been singing a couple of my favourites tomorrow (ok, I have a long, long, long, list of favourites!). But I thought I’d share a couple of them. Perhaps you could listen to them just before and after the sermon, to make your own little worship service at home!

Ancient Words was recorded by Michael W. Smith on his live album, “Worship 2.” You can listen to Smith’s version from that record here. This song reminds us that the ancient words recorded in Scripture “resound with God’s own heart,” and have the power to change us. In these strange and unimaginable days, may the Ancient words impart strength and peace and an abundance of hope to each of us.

Thou Didst Leave Thy Throne is a traditional Lenten hymn (yes, it’s still Lent!). You can listen to a lovely a cappella version here. This hymn reminds us to make room in our hearts for Jesus – for the man, his mission, his teachings, and of course, his resurrection.

I hope these hymns uplift you and help you experience worship even in this time of physical distancing!