Romans 8:28 (NIV)
28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who[a] have been called according to his purpose.
Due to the Corona Virus, so many of us are locked in and having to work from home. Some of us are bored to tears, while others are enjoying a much needed break. I personally, have enjoyed slowing down a bit, even though I still have work to do.
My daughter and I took a walk on yesterday, and just enjoyed sucking in some much needed sunshine. While we were out we saw our neighbors out walking their dogs, and enjoying the day also.
It has always amazed me, how God works well from tragic events. There is no doubt that we are already starting to see this occur. I have been blessed by seeing, communities all over the country, come together virtually, in an effort to stay well and to help others to stay well also.
People have pulled out their sewing machines and dusted them off, and are making mask for others to wear. I personally, have a sweet neighbor that has texted me on two different occasions and said “I am going to the store, do you all need anything”? It was a simple, kind gesture that showed her sincere concern for her neighbors.
One of my friends posted on Facebook, how someone anonymously had ordered several pizzas, and had them delivered to the hospital where she works, for the nurses to eat for lunch. I also saw a segment on the news where a man left a $2200. Tip at the end of his meal. There were twenty two employees that worked at this restaurant, and he wanted to give each employee $100.The outpouring of generosity at this time, and in other times of tragedy has been amazing!
And how could we ever say thank you enough, to the nurses and the doctors, and the other healthcare staff who are on the front lines. They have families at home also, yet their desire to help others, continues to be the driving force that keeps them showing up day, after day for work. They are willingly risking their lives to help others. Their courage and love for humanity is unmatched here on earth. I ask you to take a minute each day to pray for our healthcare workers, and their families as they face this deadly virus daily.
I would like to share some other good things that are occurring as a result of this tragic virus.
1. People who have needed to slow down and rest for years, are getting that opportunity.
2. Families are having dinner together around the kitchen table again, because life has slowed down a bit.
3. Families probably are eating healthier, because in most cases meals are being prepared at home.
4. Families are talking to one another again, and spending time together. Whether it be watching movies, playing games, taking walks, or riding bikes, they are together. It is wonderful that children are getting to enjoy spending time with their parents.
5. Those of us who have not yet fully embraced technology, are having to learn a whole new way of communicating. Whether by apps like Zoom, or Facebook Live, this virus has driven us to attend Church, work and school differently. When this virus is long gone, we will still be benefiting from the technology that we have learned while going through this, and that’s a good thing.
6. Because people don’t know when this virus will be over, they are watching their funds more closely and thinking before they spend.
7. Neighbors are reaching out and checking on one another. They are especially checking on our elderly.
8. Businesses are being kinder! Some grocers are offering free delivery etc. We even heard of one of our local restaurants selling eggs, because the grocery stores were out of them. It seems that everyone is pitching in to help wherever they can.
9. People’s hearts are going out to those who are losing their jobs, or having to close their businesses. The best in us is truly showing up!
10. Most importantly people are praying more these days, some more than ever before. We are all turning our faces towards God, because He is our only help and refuge.
The awareness that at a moment’s notice everything can be brought to a screeching halt, and that the operation of this world as we know it can be shut down with no prior warning, reveals that God and only God is in control.
Tragedy inevitably brings unity more times than not. Just a short month ago, our country was so divided over political views, and then the virus struck, and the focus shifted very quickly. The silver lining in it all, is that we have had to stop, pivot, and turn our faces back towards God.
We are becoming more unified as we face this war together, this virus has waged war on not only our country but the world. The Coved 19 virus has no regard for race, creed, age, color, or even financial status. It is vicious, and it is deadly, yet God still has a purpose in allowing it. And who knows, maybe it was so that, we could hit our reset button, and take a moment to really assess who and what, is really important to us. For me, it’s my family and our health, and the health of my friends.
The silver lining in this tragic time, is that we are back to focusing on people and relationships, not stuff, things, and our own agendas. Let’s set a new life goal to keep it this way.
May God bless you, as you lovingly care for your families! Stay safe and stay well!
Galatians 6:2 (NIV)
2 Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
Hebrews 13:16 (NIV)
16 And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.
Philippians 2:4 (NIV)
4 not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.
Matthew 25:44-45 (AKJV)
44 Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee? 45 Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me.
