Such A Time As This

My quarantine may look different from yours. While I have shunned people, I still make trips to the grocery store, the bank, and the recycling center. I continue to put gas in my car, and stop at Starbucks for my favorite latte. I’ve continued to cook for my family on Tuesday night, and Sunday lunch, and every meal in between. I haven't done this much cooking since my children were home and around the table every night. The walk I take every day is therapy for my soul, cows or deer the only living thing I see. Occasionally, a neighbor drives by and we share a heartfelt wave.

A recent trip to the grocery store rewarded me an air hug from twenty yards with a church friend. Fluorescent tape announced the border I mustn’t cross in the Starbucks line, as conversation revolves around “me too” experiences. Relationships have been made sweeter through Zoom connections online. 

Life before Covid-19 will resemble nothing of life after Covid-19, and that may be a very good thing. Gathering for worship is a privilege, even more than a right. Embracing those you love will be instantaneous, rather than an afterthought. Dining in my favorite restaurant will be savored and celebrated. I often say it’s the simple things that make life extraordinary, and this crisis earns exclamation marks after that statement. Our simple activities are no longer so simple, and must be thoroughly planned so we don’t harm our fellow humans.

But, the one thing that will never change, or be taken away is the intimate connection with my heavenly Father. There are no borders, no rules, no guidelines to ban me from His presence. He is as close as a prayer, the whisper of His name on my lips. He is my comfort and peace in the midst of every storm. “Do not be afraid,” is the most repeated phrase in all of scripture, and yes, it applies to such a time as this.

This virus did not take Him by surprise. Because of this, I choose to welcome every day as a gift I will use to bring honor to His name. I choose to delight in the beauty of this glorious spring, and serve those around me until this passes. I choose to speak words of encouragement, and not words of criticism. We each have a role to play, some much more important than others, but all necessary. I’m encouraged by the evidence of families spending more time together, laughter surrounding the amount of food we’re all eating, and the abundance of entertainment on social media. There are some crazy, funny people out there helping us navigate these strange times we’re in. 

My prayer is for you to be safe and well, and tucked in with those you love each night. I pray there are more books than you could possibly read, laughter that makes your belly ache, and enough food to keep you satisfied. And when you lay your head on the pillow at night, pray for those who are suffering, and those who care for them.