We are in uncertain times and I confess it is frightening even for the strongest of us. I accept that it may get worse before it gets better. Yes, we should of course stay informed. We should read and watch the news from a reputable source (I choose once a day, early in the day unless there is a local update from our county leadership). But be careful not to become consumed with the news, especially from social media. It’s just not healthy. Rather, for me, while following the guidance to stay home and stay safe, I choose to focus on redeeming the time. I wait with great expectation for a better day meanwhile working to come out better than I went in. “Life cannot grind to a halt during troubled times. In an unpleasant or distressing situation, we must adjust and keep moving. When you enter times of trouble or sudden change, pray diligently and move ahead, doing whatever you can rather than giving up because of fear and uncertainty”. (study notes from Jeremiah 29:4-7
Most of us are familiar with the passage of Jeremiah 29:11-14 and we lean on that for the promise of a future and hope. It is important though to also note that ” this does not mean that we will be spared pain, suffering or hardship but rather that God will see us through it”.
Meanwhile, I pray that we all are using this time to make ourselves and others better. Check on your neighbors. Reach out to family and acquaintances that you haven’t talked to in a while. Order a meal from a local restaurant and give a big tip to the delivery person. Give sacrificially to an organization that is providing help on the front lines. Try new recipes. Try new workouts and workout daily. Feed your mind with positive and encouraging thoughts. Learn something new. Read a good book (several good books!)
Choose hope! Let’s come out of this better than we went into it. Mind, body and spirit.
Happy Palm Sunday Saints!