Dear members and friends of IBC,

These are very uncertain times indeed. The fact is that no one knows how the Corona virus will play out. What is clear, however, is that the situation we are all facing will likely last longer than we would want. One indication of this is a bit of news I just read today regarding the cancelation of the yearly and world-famous Hamburg harbor celebrations scheduled for May 8 - 10. 

Given that no one knows how the Corona virus will develop, as well as the need we all have for clarity, the church leadership has decided that the wisest thing would be to cancel this year's church retreat and schedule it for next year. This is a disappointment for many, since from experience we know how delightful and strengthening four days with our IBC brothers and sisters can be. But we need to trust our Lord.

Toward this end I would like to take this opportunity to encourage you to meditate on the words of the Lord Jesus: "Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me" (John 14:1). Much worse that the Corona virus is "heart trouble." Of course Jesus is not talking about a physical heart condition but about a spiritual illness. He is referring to a troubled heart, a burdened heart, a sorrowful heart. And the only cure for it is Jesus. I would urge each one of you to spend extra time with Him these days and experience His healing power. As a result we will not be unduly troubled by the constant bombardment of news regarding the virus. We will grow in our ability to trust the "heart healer."

May the Lord Jesus be especially real and precious to you in these times of crisis.

Let not your heart be troubled!

Pastor Dan

PS: For those of you that have already paid your deposits and would like to have this money back – please contact the church office.