As we pass the mid-point of what seems like an extremely long year, several words come to mind that would be descriptive of how I feel about 2020.

Unexpected would definitely be one of those words. No one expected COVID-19. No one saw the social unrest that has unfolded over the last several months.

Another word would be uncertainty. It’s no surprise that unexpected events such as the ones we’ve experienced lead to uncertainty. Economic uncertainty. Health uncertainty. Emotional uncertainty. What can we do? What should we do?

But even in the midst of these unexpected and uncertain times, I would include the word grateful.

I’m grateful God has been faithful. Samuel sums it up well for me when he said, “So far, the Lord has helped us.” These unexpected and uncertain times have not caught Him off guard.

I’m grateful for the spirit I’ve seen in Louisiana Baptists. You’ve been creative, stretching yourselves, utilizing unfamiliar technology for many of you, as you’ve continued to minister to each other and your communities. You have exhibited a God-honoring spirit that shows we may have been confined, but we were not contained. You cannot quarantine good news.

I am grateful for your faithfulness in giving to the Lord through your church which supports missions and ministries across Louisiana and beyond.

Click the button at the top of the page and download this year’s CP mid-year giving report. The numbers may look a little different than in past years. But in some ways they are more meaningful. They were given during a time when the markets plunged, when energy prices tanked and when unemployment soared. They represent a love for the Lord and His mission that is humbling to observe.

You have blessed me during these unexpected and uncertain times and I am grateful to the Lord and to you.