“When the just cry out, the LORD hears them, and from all their distress he rescues them.” (Psalm 34:17)
He is there, as He has always been, holding and comforting us, assuring us that all is well. Find time in the midst of uncertainty to pray; find a quiet space to read your bible and work on your daily meditation of scripture and reflection. Turn this time into a gift from God directly to you! Of course this can be scary and uncertain but make it something more; devote it to God and find His peace and goodness and mercy in all things. I pray for you and your families, that you overcome any illness, you are safe, and that you remember the presence and love of almighty God in every action.
Scripture also tells us,
“Do to others as you would have them do to you.” (Luke 6:31) and,
“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.” (Matthew 7:12) and,
“Love your neighbor as yourself.” (Mark 12:31)
Just as God is there for us always out of love, we must be present to each other always, for the same reason. The ‘shelter in place’ directives may be inconvenient, and maybe even a sacrifice for some; but love and sacrifice often go hand in hand!
I read a beautiful memory of a woman who spent her childhood in a Bengali village, as she told it to her daughter:
“Cholera came, fear spread, we stayed in and avoided the sick, people died—sometimes someone you loved…” Long sigh. Deep breath. “But when the disease left, joy came back. That will happen here, too.”
“…and from all their distress, he rescues them.”
Let’s remember to “do unto others” and love them as we love ourselves. Love your neighbor, but keep your distance (temporarily)! It’s the loving thing to do.
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