Perseverance

     How are you doing mentally and physically through this time? Our Governor just extended our time of captivity. As we await the days when we can gather with our loved ones, how do we cope? Luckily for us, we live in a time of technology and creativity. Connecting on computers with friends and family will help get us through. We have talked through windows, met on Zoom and Facetime, talked across a yard or over a walking path.

     It’s tough. I long to hug my daughters and their families and our friends. I have always been a hugger by nature My husband will tell you I am a bit more clingy than usual! The apostle Paul knew deep suffering, much more severe than this time in our lives.

     You can read about just some of what he experienced in the 11^th chapter of 2 Corinthians. He was stoned and whipped, he was shipwrecked, dealt with starvation and imprisonment. And he never gave up singing for joy because of Jesus. He knew the end of the story. And he persevered.

I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me, heavenward in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:14

Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance’ perseverance, character; and character hope. Romans 5:3-4

     We can do this! Remain grateful to all of those keeping us safe and fed. Such sacrifice they have shown us! Press on. Persevere. Listen. Find hope. There will be light at the end of this dark time in our history.

Lord,

Thank You for the words Paul gives us. Because He knew You and counted on Your presence, he persevered through so much. We can, too. Be with us. Give us answers. Give us peace and keep us filled with hope.

In Jesus name,

Amen