Wednesday, March 25, 2020

Coping and Hoping


     My husband and I sat down on our purple recliners yesterday around 4:00, worn out from not doing much of anything, looked at each other and said, “What should we do now?”  Sound familiar? We are reading, walking, cleaning, talking on the phone, watching movies, cleaning out file cabinets and doing the usual laundry, bills, etc.
     Yes, some boredom may set in, but I find myself more relaxed, sleeping better, even in the uneasy chaos and uncertainty around us. Less planning, more fluidity, more creativity, more time to reflect, to write, to pray and to delve into books in a way I haven’t in a long time.
     How about you? Are you finding outlets for this time of isolation? Maybe you are still working and if you are, thank you!  Our gratitude for those on the front lines of health care, for the grocers, for the truck drivers, for the postal workers, and the cooks allowing us to get take-out as a treat, is immense!
     My loving Swedish Grandma Pella, loved Jesus with her whole heart. She always told me, “Yudy,"  (never could pronounce those “J’s”) "idle hands are the devil’s workshop.” If you are a believer in Christ, we can take this time to continue the great commission, and spread the good news.
“Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”  Matthew 28:19-20
     Whatever we put our minds and hearts on during this time, do it to God. Pray while doing the dishes. Do the laundry and the cooking and the cleaning as well as you can, acknowledging Hi presence. Expect Him to work.  Take care of yourself. Eat well. Try to get a good night’s sleep. (Not always easy) Get outside for some fresh air and God is with you, always, until your very last day.
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters. Colossians 3:23
     God’s love and peace is available. Lean into His presence in the weeks ahead and feel the power available to you. Pray for others. Do everything unto Him and feel your spirits lift.
Father,
Your presence means so much right now. Give us the hearts and minds to remain faithful and uplifted during these long days. Heal our fear, and heal our bodies, and heal our land.
In Jesus name,
Amen

1 comment: