COVID-19 has affected everything—including how we celebrate the Lord’s death and resurrection.
For the second year in a row … No joint services. No potlucks.
No large family gatherings to celebrate the most important weekend on the
Christian calendar.
And even if restrictions are lifted to a degree, there are
still those who will not be able to attend services and small family get-togethers.
The elderly. Those dealing with health issues of various kinds. Others in the
high-risk category.
The past year has taken a toll on all of us, on some far
more than others.
But even a worldwide pandemic can’t change …
The fact that God the Father sent His Son to die on Calvary
FOR US! (John 3:16)
Death could not contain our Saviour!
We can cast our cares on Him. (1 Peter 5:7)
His yoke truly is easy and His burden light—even when it
doesn’t feel like it. (Matthew 11:30)
He works out all things—worldwide pandemics included—for the
good of His children. (Romans 8:28)
Some two millennia later, we can worship together—possibly,
from the comfort of our living room couch. Watching the livestream of a church
service isn’t the same as meeting in person, but it can keep us connected.
We can celebrate together with friends and family—even if it
is over Zoom.
How can we bless others—even during these crazy days?
It seems strange to suggest putting yourself first, but it’s
important. Before we can pour out into others, we must fill our spiritual well.
It’s vital that we spend time in God’s Word and prayer, that we fellowship with
other believers—if not in person, by phone or over the Internet.
Send a voicemail or video rather than simply firing off a
text. You may even want to download the Marco Polo app or Voxer.
Start a Facebook group for family and friends where you can “hang
out” together.
Get hold of your church directory and message those you
haven’t seen in some time. If they’re not online—or even if they are, you can
pop a note or Easter card in the mail. You never know what a difference it can
make.
Prep a meal for a shut-in.
Offer to shop for someone who’s sick.
Go for a walk in the park with a friend.
Meet a friend for coffee if your local coffeeshop is open.
Offer to be a listening ear to those who are hurting. People
don’t always need someone to steer them in the right direction. Sometimes, they
just need a sounding board.
How can we take care of ourselves during this time?
As I mentioned, we must take care of our spiritual wellbeing.
The practice of spiritual disciplines doesn’t guarantee
emotional health. This past year has been difficult for those who previously
were unfamiliar with depression, anxiety, and PTSD. And for many who dealt with
these conditions pre-COVID, it has been almost unbearable.
I’m not a therapist nor a psychiatrist, but if you know
someone who is struggling, I encourage you to be that sounding board. And if
you’re dealing with mental health issues, please reach out.
And Church, please DO NOT make those who struggle feel
lesser in any way.
Our spiritual and emotional health are also wrapped up with
our physical wellbeing. Need to make some changes? Don’t try to do everything
at once. Take small steps in the right direction. Make lifestyle changes one by
one. Add more physical activity to your schedule. Add resistance training to
your schedule; even bodyweight exercises and the use of light weights can have
long term benefits. Make healthier food choices. Drink more water. Get adequate
sleep.
As we care for ourselves—and others—we’ll be better able to
celebrate our Lord’s death and resurrection more wholeheartedly—whether we do
so in person with other believers or within the walls of our own home.
Wonderful message on the importance of self-care so we can be in tip-top form to celebrate Christ and spread His message!
ReplyDeleteYes, Steph, Christians often tend to put others so far ahead that we forget we need some self-care, too. I have been very grateful for the 'Marco Polo' app in keeping me connected with my sweet grandchildren.
ReplyDeleteBeing a loner, this isolation isn't a burden. Even so, I'm angry at what it's doing to society in general and people in particular. We're living in fear and putting way too much trust in the government. Christ is whom we must trust.
ReplyDeleteWow - there's lots of good stuff here Steph - about self-care and how when we reach out, it makes a real difference - even simple things matter - and we are still called, as a body, to work towards being one... nice. Thank You.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Steph, You always give us such an abundance of thoughts and ideas. Thanks for these reminders for our own self-care.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Steph, so many wonderful ways to stay connected and encourage others and ourselves.
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