February 16, 2022

Dear Clayton Valley Church Family,

Today our county health officials officially removed the universal mask mandate. We thank the Lord for this development.  What does this mean for us? This Sunday as we gather for worship masks will be welcome but not required. This brings us another opportunity to prayerfully apply Romans 14 as each person decides what is best in light of their own conscience (Rom. 14:4).

On a practical level we will continue to operate in the same way we have been since November. We will continue to offer our outdoor service option for those who feel more comfortable gathering outside. Our children’s ministries will continue to follow the same principle as our adult gatherings; masking for children will be up to their parents and their conscience.

Church family, we have navigated this entire two-year trial by God’s grace relying on His truth (Rom. 13, Acts 5, Rom. 14). His love has shown through us as we have “been diligent to preserve the unity” we received in Christ (Eph. 4:3). Let’s keep pressing ahead with the same purpose for His glory (Gal. 6:9).

Following Him together,

Pastor Chris

Psalm 27:4

November 2, 2021

Dear Clayton Valley Church Family,

As the weather cools and we approach Thanksgiving season, we have many reasons to thank the Lord. The Gospel is the power of God unto salvation for all who believe (Rom. 1:16). Jesus Christ is the Ruler of All (Col. 1:16-18). He is the head of His body, the church (Col. 1:18). He is working all things for His glory (Rom. 11:36). We are His people with differing gifts, from varied backgrounds, yet mightily knit together into one body by Jesus Christ Himself (Eph. 4:1-6). Nothing in the past 20 months has taken God by surprise, in fact He has sovereignly overseen it all, and continues to do so for His wise and good purposes (Ps. 103:19; Eph. 1:11), for His glory and our good (Rom. 8:28).

In addition to all these things we are thankful for some encouraging news. As you know, over the past many months each of our county’s mask mandates have included allowances of various kinds (for medical issues, when communicating with the hearing impaired, etc.). We have recently come across an additional allowance connected to the county’s most recent masking mandate. It states that people can unmask, “when necessary to participate in religious activities that take place during indoor gatherings”.

We will continue to navigate by our three scriptural compass points:

• Rom. 13 – submit to government
• Acts 5 – unless they command something that violates God’s commands
• Rom. 14 – with grace in areas of conscience

This exception opens an opportunity for us to further apply Romans 14. This passage can be a challenge to apply as it requires prayerful self-examination. At times with matters of conscience sincere godly believers can come to different conclusions. That is the reason Paul addresses the various 1^st century perspectives on religious days in Romans 14:5 by writing,

“One person regards one day above another, another regards every day alike.

Each person must be fully convinced in his own mind.”

In our setting, the question that each needs to ask is, “Does wearing a mask hinder you from worshipping God or not?” If it does, do not wear a mask. If it does not, wear a mask.

What will this look like when we gather together?

• Some may sense a need to unmask for our entire gathering.
• Others might remove their masks for part of the time.
• Still others may desire to remain masked as we have been.

As weather allows, we will continue to offer our outdoor service option. It could be that some will still want to gather unmasked outside. We will continue to give as many options as we can so that you can honor the Lord in light of Romans 14.

As we will likely see more people unmasked inside, let’s continue in vigilance against jumping to conclusions. The Apostle Paul reminds us, “Who are you to judge the servant of another?” (Rom. 14:4) If you observe someone in this way, keep in mind they may fall under an exception that allows them to unmask.

As we enter the Thanksgiving season in the month ahead, let’s echo the praise-filled words of the Psalmist,

I will give thanks to the LORD with all my heart;

I will tell of all Your wonders.

I will be glad and exult in You;

I will sing praise to Your name, O Most High.

- Psalm 9:1-2

We have so many reasons to give the Lord thanks. One of them is the joy of walking together in this church family, whether the roads are rough or smooth, knowing He navigates us ahead together in Him. 

With gratitude,

Pastor Chris

Psalm 27:4

August 6, 2021

Dear Clayton Valley Church Family,

This week we all received disappointing news from our county health officials of a new mask mandate requiring all individuals, regardless of vaccination status, to mask indoors in public due to a resurgence of covid-19. We recognize in our diverse church family there are many differing opinions and preferences around masking. As we prayerfully talked through our response as believers, our primary focus centered on how we can honor the Lord and best care for our church as a whole. From the outset of this pandemic, we have walked by three scriptural compass points:

• Romans 13 – submit to government
• Acts 5 – unless they command something that violates God’s commands
• Romans 14 – with grace in areas of conscience

Over the past year and a half, these scriptural compass points have led us to different responses to government health statutes. You might recall under a previous county health mandate we refused to comply because they made a prohibition against singing when gathered as a church. We rejected that mandate because God calls His people to sing when they gather for worship (Psalm 33:1-2, Col. 3:16). In contrast, the current mask mandate does not contain any such prohibition. In light of our desire to honor God in relation to governing authorities (Romans 13), and out of love for one another (both vaccinated and unvaccinated), we will mask when we gather indoors. We will continue to provide an outdoor, mask free gathering as well. Our live stream will also continue. You have several options for joining us in the way you believe is best.

Let’s continue to walk with vigilance against even subtle tendencies towards rash judgments against one another. I mention this because in the weeks ahead, you might see someone unmasked indoors. County guidelines include masking exceptions:

• If you have health issues that prevent you from masking.
• If you are communicating with the hearing impaired.
• If you are eating or drinking.

Rather than jump to conclusions, remember the Apostle Paul’s words, “Who are you to judge the servant of another?” (Rom. 14:4) If you observe someone in this way, keep in mind that it is possible they fall under an exception that prevents them from masking.

I thank the Lord for this church family that has, throughout this extended trial, repeatedly demonstrated wisdom and love for one another. As we walk ahead let’s show we are followers of the One who is the embodiment of grace and truth (John 1:17) by extending these very things to one another (John 13:34) and all the Lord brings across our path (Col. 4:5-6).

In His mighty grace,

Pastor Chris

Psalm 27:4

June 10, 2021

Dear Clayton Valley Church Family,

As you have likely heard, June 15th is slated as California’s date to adjust COVID 19 health guidelines. Capacity limits will be removed. Physical distancing will no longer be required. Masking requirements will be removed for those who have been vaccinated. These exciting changes raise the question, what will we do as a church after June 15^th?

I’m happy to say, beginning June 15^th, Clayton Valley Church will no longer require masks or social distancing for any of our gatherings. This means Sunday June 20^th will be our first maskless, distanceless service in over a year. What a joy it will be to gather again ‘face-to-face’.  Some might ask, “Since the state removal of the mask mandate applies only to the vaccinated, what about those who are not vaccinated?” This is a natural question. Our response is simple. It is not our place or responsibility as a church to monitor people’s personal health choices with regards to being vaccinated or not. As we noted with many other issues throughout the pandemic, vaccination decisions fall firmly under matters of conscience (Rom. 14). A follow up question could be, “What about the increased health risks for the unvaccinated?” If a person chooses to forgo vaccination, he or she decides to embrace a greater risk of catching the virus. This health preference does not increase the health risk of those who have been vaccinated in any way. In light of this, we will not inquire about anyone’s vaccination status. All are welcome to come mask free, without social distancing to worship the Lord together.

At the same time, if someone prefers to gather wearing a mask, they are welcome to do so. Some of us have pressing medical concerns that might require this.  As we interact with those who are masked or unmasked, let’s be sure to refrain from any form of rash judgment. Let’s remember what the Apostle Paul writes,

Who are you to judge the servant of another? To his own master he stands or falls; and he will stand, for the Lord is able to make him stand. (Rom. 14:4)

Some have asked if we will continue to set up for people to meet outside. The answer is yes, for the time being. As it gets hotter, we will adjust as more folks will likely prefer to gather indoors. We will also continue our livestream as it has become a key part of caring for shut-ins and reaching farther to those who cannot attend our services in person. 

These are exciting days ahead. Let’s give our Lord praise for His mighty care of us through this pandemic as we worship together, face to face, unto Him (Psalm 148). 

With affection and joy,

Pastor Chris

Psalm 27:4

February 12, 2021

We are grateful to the Lord for the many ways He has guided us through each phase of this pandemic. We have sought to walk in tune with Him in light of Scripture (2 Tim. 3:16; Acts 5:29), and to honor Him by submitting to our government’s guidelines (1 Pet. 2:13-17; Rom. 13:1-7). We have also sought to carry out these things in a way that upholds the biblical importance of each person’s conscience before God (Rom. 14:1-23).

As I mentioned on Sunday, we thank the Lord for the recent Supreme Court ruling that lifted California’s ban on indoor church gatherings. For the past week we have prayerfully wrestled through our steps ahead as a church. We sought input from our deacons and staff members which gave clarifying perspective on the multifaceted thoughts, preferences and convictions of our church family.

Some of us say, “I want to meet outside…”

• “because it is beautiful”
• “because I detest wearing masks “
• “I have health concerns”

 Others say, “I want to meet inside…”

• “because I can focus better”
• “I like climate control”
• “the weather shouldn’t prevent us from meeting”

These varied responses show yet again the beautiful diversity of our church family and we thank the Lord for it. They have also brought us to several conclusions.

Though we’ve enjoyed beautiful mornings of outdoor worship together with heartwarming, instructive kid’s moments and songs of praise lifted to God in His creation, we realize the weather is changing. We are entering into the rainy season. In light of this, and recent lifting of the indoor worship ban, starting this Sunday (2/14/21) we will meet inside.

At the same time, in light of Romans 14 and the various matters of conscience and preference in our church family, we will also make provision for those who desire to meet outside. There will be an area set up in the parking lot with a video feed and seats.

In this way we believe we can honor the principles of God’s word and accommodate the various preferences, convictions and concerns. This also allows us to continue down the path of the three scriptural compass points we have used over the past many months:

1. Submit to government (1 Peter 2:13-17).

        We will uphold this biblical principle by:

• Wearing masks – inside, at all times / outside, while not at our seats.
• Social distancing
• Adhering to county recommended cleaning protocols
• Respecting building occupancy limits – 25 % in current tier.

2. Government submission ceases when its commands violate God’s commands (Acts 5:29)

This principle touches on our concerns about singing. I will address this more on Sunday morning. For now, let’s be sure to maintain an important distinction:

• There are no biblical commands about “where we gather” for worship. It could be in someone’s backyard, atop Mt. Diablo or at the beach.

• However, there are biblical commands to sing “when we gather” (Eph. 5:19; Col. 3:16; Ps 33:1-3, 47:6-7). As we have said many times, when an imperative from God collides with an imperative from government, we must “obey God rather than man.” (Acts 5:29)

3. We must walk in love and wisdom regarding matters of conscience (Romans 14:1-23).

We will uphold this principle as we: 

• Provide space for outdoor worship.
• Provide space for indoor worship.
• Open up the Fellowship Hall (downstairs) where parents who desire a space for their kids can engage them in a learning activity (i.e. coloring, Keys for Kids, puzzles) during the service. (note: CVC Kids remains closed until further notice.)
• Continue livestreaming our service.
• Allow each person to make the best decision in light of conscience.

These have been months of stretching for all of us. I am thankful for a church family that lives with soft hearts towards the Word of God, a tender care for one another, and a desire to glorify God more than satisfy preferences. As we move forward together in humility (Phil. 2:3-4) we make the gospel visible in our community. Let’s keep in mind how the Lord viewed this avenue of our witness when He said, “By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:35)

With gratitude for His grace,

Pastor Chris

Psalm 27:4

February 6, 2021

Dear Clayton Valley Church family,

As many of you know, late last evening the Supreme Court lifted California’s ban on indoor church services. The court also went on to say that attendance indoors can be limited to 25 % of building occupancy and singing and/or chanting can be restricted. We are thankful for much of what the court decided. Praise the Lord we will never have to go back to online only! And yet even as our pastoral staff discussed what this means for us this Sunday, we realize it does not solve all of our issues because as individuals we all have thoughts and opinions and preferences. For example:

• Some have really enjoyed the outdoor meetings. They like the outdoor air. They know it’s cold, but they don’t mind dressing warm and bringing a blanket. They hate facemasks and love to remove them as soon as they reach their seat. Plus, the likelihood of spreading the virus is diminished by meeting outside.

• Some have been longing to meet inside. They don’t like the distractions of outside. The hum of traffic and airplanes flying overhead make it hard to hear, and they can’t wait to get inside. And we all love a well-regulated predictable temperature. Not to mention, Andrew and Eric wouldn’t mind not having to set up and tear down the tech every week!

The truth is there are pros and cons to each. This is yet another way we see the beautiful diversity of saints that God has brought together at Clayton Valley Church. Let’s be careful brothers and sisters to guard against any tendency to elevate our own thoughts against the thoughts of others with a different perspective (Rom. 14:2-13). Let’s remember we wrestle again the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places(Eph. 6:12). When we live aware of this conflict it places two vital questions before us: 

• Will we allow our present circumstances to become a tool in the hand of our spiritual enemy, driving a wedge of ungodly division amongst those God has made one? (Eph. 2:15-16)

• Or will these trials be harnessed as an opportunity from the Lord to display the transforming power of the Gospel as we live out our oneness in our Lord Jesus Christ? (Eph. 4:2-5)

Jesus put it this way,

“By this all people will know that you are my disciples,

if you have love for one another.” (John 13:35)

The Apostle Paul follows up by saying,

“Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit,

but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.

Let each of you look not only to his own interests,

but also to the interests of others.” (Phil. 2:3-4)

We’ve been prayerfully expecting a ruling to come yet without a clear grasp of the ruling’s specifics or practical ramifications. This afternoon we find ourselves in the middle of a Saturday with various options, none which will satisfy everyone. In light of the suddenness of the ruling along with the lovely weather we’re supposed to have tomorrow, we’ve decided that for this Lord's Day (2.7.21) we will again gather outside.

In the coming week, we will share what our plans will be for the future. Let’s continue in prayer that we would honor the Lord in everything we think, say and do that He would be glorified (1 Cor. 10:31) and others would come to know Him (Col. 4:5-6).

In His mighty grace,

Pastor Chris

Psalm 27:4

January 30, 2021

Dear Clayton Valley Church Family,

We are grateful for the favorable weather forecast and look forward to gathering in-person / outdoors and via livestream. For those joining us in person be sure to: 

• Dress warm, it will get a little chilly.
• Bring instructional activity items for your kids as CVC Kids will not be open.
• Bring your mask.
• Print up the song lyrics a head of time or be ready to open them on your phone.
• Prayerfully prepare your heart to love and encourage one another.

This week we will celebrate the Lord's Table and continue our journey through The Sermon on the Mount examining what it means to live as salt and light (Matt. 5:13-16).

With joy in Him,

Pastor Chris

Psalm 27:4

January 23, 2021

Dear Clayton Valley Church Family,

Thank you for your prayers as we continue to seek the Lord’s wisdom to navigate this season. Because our weather forecast for tomorrow includes rain:

• We will not meet outdoors / in person this Sunday (1/24/21), but instead will gather online only.
• We will celebrate Lord’s Table at our next in-person gathering.

Even as we are saddened by these developments, let’s be sure to prepare our hearts to worship the Lord tomorrow. As we gather online let’s continue singing to Him together with all our hearts, encouraging one another (via text, Facetime etc...), and eagerly hearing His word proclaimed that we would be changed for His glory (2 Tim. 3:15-17). Tomorrow we will continue our journey through The Sermon on the Mount as we look at Matthew 5:10-12. I encourage you to prayerfully read it as you prepare your heart for celebrating the Lord’s Day (Rev. 1:10).

Grateful for His grace,

Pastor Chris

Psalm 27:4

December 18, 2020

Dear Clayton Valley Church Family,

Today county enacted the state’s new ‘Regional Stay at Home Order’. Thankfully it includes provision for churches to gather for worship outside. We are also thankful that our weather forecast for Sunday is ‘rain free’. In light of this, we will look forward to gathering together this Sunday in person / outside and via livestream. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Dress warm, it will get a little chilly.
• Bring instructional activity items for your kids as CVC Kids will not be open.
• Bring your mask.
• Print up the song lyrics a head of time or be ready to open them on your phone.
• Prayerfully prepare your heart to love and encourage one another.

We will continue exploring the Wonder of Christmas as we consider the Incarnation. May the Lord be glorified in us as we worship Him together this Lord’s Day.

With gratitude,

Pastor Chris

Psalm 27:4

December 11, 2020

Dear Clayton Valley Church Family,

Here is Pastor Chris sharing our most recent update. 

In light of the update above, those participating in our Christmas Joy outreach are encouraged to bring their gifts to church any time this Sunday (12/13) between 1 - 3 PM. Thank you for being a blessing to children whose parents are in jail. If you would like to help deliver gifts be sure to reach out to Jenni Splendorio (click here). She will gladly put you to work with the joyful job of getting these gifts to these children.

December 4, 2020

Dear Clayton Valley Church Family,

Perhaps you have already heard, our county is implementing the state’s new “Regional Stay Home Order”. Thankfully, this new order makes provision for worship services to be held outdoors under existing guidelines. Out of a desire to honor the Lord (1 Peter 2:13-17), we will gather on Sunday both outside and online. This week we kick of our Christmas series entitled “The Wonder of Christmas”. 

We look forward to having you with us as we encourage one another and grow in wonder at what God has accomplished in the Incarnation (2 Cor. 9:15).

Resting in hope, in Him,

Pastor Chris

Psalm 27:4

November 20, 2020

Dear Clayton Valley Church Family,

Our county has been placed in the more restrictive “purple tier” because of an increase in COVID cases. Under these guidelines, worship services are to be held outside.

As we have said from the outset of this pandemic, we will navigate through this season together as a church family utilizing three biblical compass points:

• 1 Peter 2:13-17 – submit to government
• Acts 5:29 – except when they call us to violate God’s commands
• Romans 14:2-23 – with gracious wisdom in matters of conscience

 In light of this, we will gather together for worship outside at 10:30 AM this Sunday. Some things to keep in mind:

• Dress warm, it could get a little chilly.
• Bring instructional activity items for your kids as CVC Kids will not be open.
• Bring your mask.
• Print up the song lyrics a head of time or be ready to open them on your phone.
• Prayerfully prepare your heart to love and encourage one another.
• Prayerfully anticipate sharing in the Lord’s Table together. (Note: for those joining us online, remember to contact the office today before 4:30 PM to get communion elements.)

As we do this, we seek to honor the Lord Jesus Christ by submitting to His command to gather and to honor governing authorities. What do we have to lose and what do we have to gain? We will undoubtedly give up our own comfort (heated air) and convenience (the hassle of moving outside), but in doing so, we voluntarily lay aside our own interests for the sake of bringing honor to the Name of Jesus by keeping our conduct honorable among those whom we live as sojourners (1 Peter 2:12). 

Whether you are joining us online via livestream or in person this Sunday, I look forward to worshiping the Lord together with you this Lord’s Day.

With gratitude and anticipation,

Pastor Chris

Psalm 27:4

November 6, 2020

Dear Clayton Valley Church Family,

As many of you are already aware, county health department is reinstating more stringent guidelines due to an increase in COVID cases. Churches are once again limited to 25% of occupancy or 100 people, whichever is less. In light of this, we have reduced the number of chairs in the auditorium and overflow seating will be available in the Fellowship Hall as we continue to observe county health guidelines. We look forward to seeing you Sunday either in person or online. Grateful to worship the One who rules over all things (Psalm 103:19).

With affection

Pastor Chris

Psalm 27:4

October 30, 2020

Dear Clayton Valley Church family,

We have some excellent news! As of this week, Contra Costa County was placed into the orange tier of our state’s reopening plan. Under these new guidelines “houses of worship” may have up to 200 people gather in person and indoors. We thank the Lord. What does that mean for us this Sunday?

1. We will increase the seating set up in our main auditorium to accommodate more people. We might not be able to fit exactly 200 chairs into our space while keeping our county’s social distancing requirements, but we will make many more chairs available.

2. We will pipe a video feed of the service into the Fellowship Hall (downstairs) with tables and additional seating. Parents who desire a space for their kids can engage them in a learning activity (i.e. coloring, Keys for Kids, puzzles) during the service.

For those of us who are not yet ready or able to gather in person, we look forward to having you with us on our livestream. We continue to thank the Lord for His watchful shepherding of our church and lives through these days.

With gratitude,

Pastor Chris

Psalm 27:4

September 30, 2020

Dear Clayton Valley Church Family,

We praise the Lord that we will be gathering for worship this Sunday morning in person and indoors! This is greatly encouraging. Our livestream will continue  for those who would like to join us from home.

As we re-open, we will continue to honor the Lord by following the guidelines given by our state and county health officials (1 Peter 2:13-17).  

• If you have a temperature or are exhibiting any symptoms of Covid-19, please stay home. 

• Out of consideration for all attending, face coverings will be required for everyone, and must be worn while you are inside. 

• Chairs have been spaced 6 feet apart and set-up based on household size.  Ushers will help guide you to your seat.

• Attendance in the Sanctuary will be limited to the first 100 people – please arrive early to ensure that you have a seat.  There will be overflow seating available in the Fellowship Hall.

• Please limit traffic via the stairs between the lobby and the Fellowship Hall.

• The upstairs Nursery bathrooms and the Fellowship Hall bathrooms will be open.  All other bathrooms will be closed.  Please note that only one adult or one family at a time will be allowed in a bathroom.  

• There will be no Bibles, pencils, or offering envelopes available for use so please plan ahead.

• Hand sanitizers will be available in the lobby and in the Fellowship Hall. 

• Children will remain with parents as CVC Kids remains closed for the time being.

As we gather this Sunday, whether in person or online, we will joyfully declare with the Psalmist,

Let all who seek You rejoice and be glad in You;

And let those who love Your salvation say continually,

“Let God be magnified.”

- Psalm 70:4    

With anticipation and joy,

Pastor Chris

Psalm 27:4

August 9, 2020

Dear Clayton Valley Church Family,

As the season progresses and the sun sets a little earlier, our new outdoor evening service start time will be 6:30 PM.  We will continue wearing masks and following all county health guidlines. This will be a time to share together in song, prayer and celebrating the Lord's table.

We look forward to seeing you there.

July 26, 2020

July 23, 2020

Dear Clayton Valley Church Family,

It was wonderful to gather last week in person for our evening service outside. Even though we couldn’t see one another face to face for our morning service, sharing together in the Lord’s table that night was encouraging and refreshing (1 Cor. 11:24-25). We will conduct our services in the same way over the next several weeks. Each Sunday morning, we will meet online via livestream at 10:30 AM. Then on Sunday nights at 7:00 PM we will gather outside, in person for a time of singing, prayer and the Lord’s Table. For more information on how this will work, be sure to watch the previous update (see below). Whether it is online or in person, I look forward to gathering with you this Sunday.

With joy,

Pastor Chris

Psalm 27:4

July 16, 2020

Some highlights from this update:

• We will meet online via livestream only for our Sunday morning worship service @ 10:30 AM. To view our livestream click here.

• We will meet at 7:00 PM for an evening service in person and outside. This will be a time focused on prayer, singing and celebrating the Lord's table. All CCC Health guidlines will be observed. 

June 19, 2020

Dear Clayton Valley Church family,

We are excited as we anticipate meeting together this Sunday, June 21st at 10:30 AM and very excited that we can now meet inside! Our livestream will remain available for those joining us from home.

As we re-open, we desire to honor the Lord by following the guidelines given by state and local authorities as we try to consider the health and safety of all our attendees. Anyone with a temperature or exhibiting any of the other signs of Covid-19, please stay home.  Additionally, please adhere to the following guidelines:

• Out of consideration for all attending, face coverings will be required for everyone, and must be worn while you are inside. 

• Chairs have been spaced 6 feet apart and set-up based on household size.  Ushers will help guide you to your seat.

• Attendance in the Sanctuary will be limited to the first 100 people – please arrive early to ensure that you have a seat.  There will be overflow seating available in the Fellowship Hall.

• Please limit traffic via the stairs between the lobby and the Fellowship Hall.

• The upstairs Nursery bathrooms and the Fellowship Hall bathrooms will be open.  All other bathrooms will be closed.  Please note that only one adult or one family at a time will be allowed in a bathroom.  

• There will be no Bibles, pencils, or offering envelopes available for use so please plan ahead.  Ushers will hand out offering envelopes upon request.

• Hand sanitizers will be available in the lobby and in the Fellowship Hall. 

• Children will remain with parents as CVC Kids remains closed for the time being.

As a final encouragement, may Philippians 2:3-4 continue to be on our hearts and minds as we gather as disciples of Jesus.

“Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others."

With anticipation and joy,

Pastor Andrew and the Staff of Clayton Valley Church

June 17, 2020

Dear Clayton Valley Church Family,

As I mentioned on Sunday, we are living through tumultuous and historic days. Paul calls us to redeem the time because the days are evil. In light of this I am setting aside some time for myself to fast and pray. I invite you to join me. Though this has been a regular practice for Christians over the centuries, for many of us it is new. You might be asking, “What is fasting?” John Piper defines fasting as,

“… a temporary renunciation of something that is in itself good, like food, in order to intensify our expression of need for something greater — namely, God and his work in our lives.”

 In describing different occasions for fasting author David Mathis writes,

“Do you share together in some special need for God’s wisdom and guidance? Is there an unusual difficulty in the church, or society, for which you need God’s intervention? Do you want to keep the second coming of Christ in view? Plead with special earnestness for God’s help by linking arms with other believers to fast together.”

 This is what we are seeking to accomplish together. If fasting is new to you, I would recommend you skip one meal and use that time to pray. If you are facing health conditions that will not allow you to fast, please consider taking extra time to pray by forgoing something else. Maybe you can abstain from the computer, or social media, or television or some other thing you regularly enjoy in order to enjoy Jesus more in prayer.

 I’m including a brief prayer guide (see below) so that we can focus on the critical needs that have brought us to this urgent time of seeking Him. As we fast and pray together, may He be glorified and may we know Him more and become greater salt and light in this dark world (Matt. 5:3-16).

With gratitude and affection,

Pastor Chris

Psalm 27:4

Links Related to This Update 

Prayer Guide for Thursday June 18, 2020 

John Piper on "Why Do Christians Fast?" 

David Mathis on "Fasting for Beginners"

June 12, 2020

Dear Clayton Valley Church Family,

We are excited as we anticipate meeting together face to face this Sunday, June 14th at 10:30AM!  Though things will look different than the last time that we gathered together, it will be wonderful to see one another face to face.

As we re-open, the health and safety of all our attendees is paramount. Our worship service will be held outside in the upper parking lot in accordance with the county’s allowance. CVC Kids will remain closed due to current county restrictions. Anyone with a temperature or exhibiting any of the other signs of Covid-19, please stay home. Additionally, please adhere to the following guidelines:

• Out of consideration for all attending, please wear a face covering until you are in your seat. When you are moving about please maintain physical distancing of 6 feet. Once you are in your seat you may remove your face covering if you so choose.  

• Chairs will be spaced 6 feet apart and pre-arranged based on your survey responses. Ushers will help guide you to your seat.

• The upstairs Nursery bathrooms and the Ed Wing bathrooms will be open. All other bathrooms will be closed.  Please note that only one adult at a time will be allowed in a bathroom. 

• There will be no Bibles, pencils, or offering envelopes available for use so please plan ahead. Ushers will hand out offering envelopes upon request.

• Hand sanitizers will be placed on tables near the oak tree and lawn area.

• Attendance will be limited to the first 100 people – please arrive early to ensure that you have a seat. 

  

  Parking in the upper lot will be limited. Please use extra caution and follow the instructions of the parking attendants. The lower lot and street parking are also available.

• Parents with young children, since we are meeting in the parking lot, please watch them closely and do not let them run where cars will be driving.

As a final encouragement, may Philippians 2:3-4 be on our hearts and minds as we gather as disciples of Jesus.

“Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”

With anticipation and joy,

Pastor Andrew and the Staff of Clayton Valley Church

June 6, 2020

May 23, 2020

May 8, 2020

Consider the Lilies of the Field

FLOWERS preach to us if we will hear:--
The rose saith in the dewy morn:
I am most fair;
Yet all my loveliness is born
Upon a thorn.
The poppy saith amid the corn:
Let but my scarlet head appear
And I am held in scorn;
Yet juice of subtle virtue lies
Within my cup of curious dyes.
The lilies say: Behold how we
Preach without words of purity.
The violets whisper from the shade
Which their own leaves have made:
Men scent our fragrance on the air,
Yet take no heed
Of humble lessons we would read.
But not alone the fairest flowers:
The merest grass
Along the roadside where we pass,
Lichen and moss and sturdy weed,
Tell of His love who sends the dew,
The rain and sunshine too,
To nourish one small seed.

by: Christina Rossetti (1830-1894)

April 30, 2020

Day by Day

Day by day and with each passing moment,
Strength I find to meet my trials here;
Trusting in my Father's wise bestowment,
I've no cause for worry or for fear.
He whose heart is kind beyond all measure
Gives unto each day what He deems best--
Lovingly, its part of pain and pleasure,
Mingling toil with peace and rest.

Ev'ry day the Lord Himself is near me
With a special mercy for each hour;
All my cares He fain would bear, and cheer me,
He whose name is Counselor and Pow'r.
The protection of His child and treasure
Is a charge that on Himself He laid;
"As thy days, thy strength shall be in measure,"
This the pledge to me He made.

Help me then in eve'ry tribulation
So to trust Thy promises, O Lord,
That I lose not faith's sweet consolation
Offered me within Thy holy Word.
Help me, Lord, when toil and trouble meeting,
E'er to take, as from a father's hand,
One by one, the days, the moments fleeting,
Till with Christ the Lord I stand. 

- Lina Sandell Berg (1832 - 1903)

A correction: I mistakenly said the hymn writer's first name was 'Liza' in the video; her name was Lina.

April 23, 2020

April 17, 2020

Links Related to this Update:

Faith's Checkbook - Charles Spurgeon 

Participate in Caring Ministry, contact Michelle Meyer

April 9, 2020

Links Related to this Update

Dangerous Journey: The Story of Pilgrims Progress

Good Friday / Passion Week Resource Page

Vital Prayer | Colossians 4:2-4

April 6, 2020

Dear Clayton Valley Church Family,

Yesterday we explored a fascinating prayer request from the Apostle Paul:

...praying at the same time for us as well,

that God will open up to us a door for the word,

so that we may speak forth the mystery of Christ,

for which I have also been imprisoned;

that I may make it clear in the way I ought to speak. 

- Colossians 4:3-4

Amazingly, God has opened such a door. Throughout this week we will reach out via social media in order to invite people to join us online for our Easter service. As I mentioned on Sunday, this concept initially came across our path from RealityLA church. Their training materials on how we can share our story have been made available by The Gospel Coalition. You can find them here. In order to connect more people with more stories we are going to join them in using the hashtag #Jesuschangedmylife. What an exciting season of gospel opportunity!

In a church as diverse as ours, we understand some are not on social media. Thankfully, there are many other ways you can invite people to join us online this Easter. You can text or email or maybe give someone a phone call. Whatever means you use, we encourage you to take advantage of this open door to share Christ, especially in times like this.

In our last update I mentioned that we would post helps to focus our hearts and minds through Passion Week and Good Friday. You can find these resources here.

Let’s take this week to think about Jesus, remember His path the cross, the life He gave and the salvation He has secured. Let’s be sure to pray to Him (Col. 4:2), praise Him (Psalm 103:1), hope in Him (1 Pet. 1:3) and share that hope with others (Col. 1:27).

With affection,

Pastor Chris

Psalm 27:4

April 3, 2020

Dear Clayton Valley Church Family,

As we travel through these difficult days, let’s keep in mind what the Psalmist writes in Psalm 91:1-4

He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High

Will abide in the shadow of the Almighty.

I will say to the LORD, “My refuge and my fortress,

My God, in whom I trust!”

For it is He who delivers you from the snare of the trapper

And from the deadly pestilence.

He will cover you with His pinions,

And under His wings you may seek refuge;

His faithfulness is a shield and bulwark.

We must remember He is our only safety and refuge, our ever faithful, wise, sovereign God.

New Shelter in Place / Easter Sunday

By now you have heard of the new shelter in place order from the Contra Costa Health Dept. which extends through May 3^rd.

This is challenging on many levels, from being physically apart to financial difficulties to just feeling cooped up in the same place. Yet in the midst of crumbling economies and extended isolation we can rest secure because Jesus is our hope!

We want to be sure to proclaim this message clearly, especially this Easter Sunday. No, we will not be able to gather face to face as a church, yet what an opportunity we have during this unique moment in history! Think about it, people are sheltering at home, many of them on phones and computers, scrolling through social media throughout the day. We would like to harness this opportunity to tell people how Jesus is our hope.

Here is what we would like to do:

• We will provide tools helping you record your testimony as a short 1 to 2 minute video for social media.

• The week leading up to Easter (April 6 -11) we will all post our videos on our social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, etc…) with the hashtag #Jesusismyhope

• Now instead of each of us reaching out to one or two with an Easter service invite, we can share the good news of Jesus with hundreds!

What an exciting way to proclaim the gospel and use this pandemic for good.

The question is what is your story? No one can tell your story as well as you can. We will have materials up on our website soon to help you think about the shape of your story and how Jesus changed it.

As you post your story any time from April 6 – 11 with #Jesusismyhope you will also include our church’s handle (@claytonvalleychurch) to connect folks to our online Easter worship service where they will hear the Gospel, learn how to respond by faith and how to connect with a local church.

Let’s be in prayer that the Lord will use our efforts to bring many to Himself this Easter!

Online Worship Service

We will worship together online again this Sunday morning at 10:30 AM with one change. We will go to a ‘pre-recorded’ format this week in order to strengthen the quality of our online service experience. We have an amazing tech team. The task before them is multilayered and complex. Our goal over the next several weeks to work out some lingering tech glitches. Eventually we hope to return to our livestream format.

Good Friday

In light of this season, we will approach Good Friday in a different way as well. Instead of hosting an online service, we will post several different resources on our web page to help you focus through the passion week. Maybe you want to pray through the passion week alone or with someone else connecting online or by phone. You might desire some kind of daily devotional on Christ’s life. Others might want to celebrate the Lord’s Table as a gathered household. Some may even want to commemorate this time by partaking of a Seder meal in their home. We will post a variety of resources so you can choose how you will focus on Jesus, Worship Him, and rest in Him throughout the passion week and through Good Friday.

Hearts Courageous

This past week during our family worship time we sang an old song from several decades ago entitled “Hearts Courageous” (see lyrics below). I thought it might be an encouragement to our church family as well so I made a rough video of it. As you listen, pay special attention to these words as they describe facing fearful times with courage in Jesus.

Hearts Courageous

Give us ears to hear that still, small voice,
And give us lips, forever willing to rejoice.
And may our eyes be lit with wisdom,
May we know the path that's true,
And we'll march with hearts courageous after You.

We're marching on... with hearts courageous,
We'll follow where you want us to.
And should you lead us where the battle rages,
Let us march with hearts courageous, after You.

And when sorrow dims the light along our way,
Help us to see each time of darkness through eyes of faith,
A time for hope, a time for courage,
Knowing you will lead us through.
And let us march with hearts courageous, after You.

We're marching on... with hearts courageous,
We'll follow where you want us to.
And should you lead us where the battle rages,
Let us march with hearts courageous, after You

By Jamie Owens-Collins, Published by Maranatha! Music

March 25, 2020

 Links related to this update:

Family Worship by Donald S. Whitney

The Little Pilgrim's Progress

Dangerous Journey: The Story of Pilgrim's Progress

Sinclair Ferguson on “The Whole Christ”

Robert Godfrey’s Survey of Church History  

Clayton Valley Church Prayer Request Page

Contra Costa Health Dept. Contrasting Symptoms of Cold, Flu and COVID-19

Red Cross Local Blood Donation Drives

March 17, 2020

Dear Clayton Valley Church Family,

What a wonderful Sunday we shared together at the start of this week! It was our first gathering online. It went incredibly smoothly for which we praise God. The Lord has given us a remarkable team of staff, ministry leaders and deacons. There were more adjustments, pivots and quick audibles than I can list here. Suffice it to say the Lord used our capable team to weave together a time of gathering to look up, focus on, cry out and wait through this season together (Psalm 27:1-14). The feedback from you has deeply encouraged all involved. I am immensely grateful for what God accomplished.

Note: You can listen to, or watch, the message again by visiting here.

Yesterday, we all received news from the Contra Costa Health Department that a “shelter-in-place” order will stand through Tuesday, April 7^th. As we continue abiding by the recommendations of the authorities placed over us by God (Rom. 13; Titus 3:1), we will voluntarily forgo meeting physically as a church through April 7th. We do this fully aware that the county may suspend this order early or on the other hand they might need to extend it. As developments arise, rest assured our leadership team will prayerfully consider what the Lord would have us do in light of His Word.

If you are facing financial hardships, please be sure to let us know. Feel free to reach out to your deacon or contact the church office. This is your church family and it is our joy and privilege to help care for one another.

I close with a graphic I’ve shared many times before. This is a picture (see above) of what the Bible calls us to as we ‘one another’ one another. The larger the depiction, the more frequently the command occurs in the New Testament. Prayerfully look at this and consider how you can carry out these commands during this season of ‘shelter-in-place’. What ways can you ‘one another’ the people in your life without being in their physical presence? Is it an encouraging phone call, email or video chat? Is it placing some supplies or needed groceries on their doorstep? Let’s be sure to take advantage of this time to demonstrate the transformative, astounding love of Christ to those who God has placed in our lives (Col. 4:5-6). May it be said years from now, that during the time when a virus named ‘king’ (Corona) sought to take over the world, God used His people to help many know Jesus Christ the Ruler of the Kings of the Earth (Rev. 1:5).

With affection,

Pastor Chris

Psalm 27:4

March 14, 2020

Dear Clayton Valley Church Family,

As I mentioned in our last post, we are in a fluid situation with new information coming at a fast rate. We have learned that Contra Costa County is requesting that groups of 50 or more cancel events in order to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.  Our desire is to honor the Lord by submitting to the governing authorities He has placed over us. In Titus chapter 3 the Apostle Paul writes,

Remind them to be subject to rulers, to authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good deed, to malign no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing every consideration for all men.  (Titus 3:1-2)

 In light of this we will be meeting by Livestream only for the next two Sundays (3/15 and 3/22). We will not meet on campus. This is a tangible way we can honor the Lord, love one another and care for our community.

This Sunday we will have our worship team lead us in musical worship and we will be in God’s Word together. It will be a time to lift our eyes and hearts up to our sovereign God. We will not be in the same building, but we will still join together in praise and love to bring our weary souls to Him to drink deeply, and to be refreshed. Be sure to join us by visiting:https://www.claytonvalleychurch.com/livestream

With affection,

Pastor Chris

Psalm 27:4

March 13, 2020

Dear Clayton Valley Church Family,

In a season of spreading pandemics and crashing markets how do we respond? The Apostle Paul calls us to remember,

For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison (2 Cor. 4:17).

Fixing our minds on the end, Christ’s return, a new heavens and earth and an eternity with Him is of paramount importance to us. As those ‘in Christ’ (Colossians 1-3) we are enabled in the security of His grip to care for others with a prevailing sense of peace.

At the same time, we are called to take action as we respond to the COVID-19 outbreak. Our focus is the health and safety of our church family, and loving the community around us, without being driven by fear. What does that mean for this Sunday? One of the principles clearly laid out in Scripture is God