The pandemic has shaken up our world and things seem weird, almost eerie. All the things we used to freely do have been taken away. Suddenly we are thrown into a world where our priorities have been rearranged, and our concerns have gone to a whole new level. Never would we have imagined such a thing in our lifetime. Seems almost like an episode of “The Twilight Zone” or something on a video game. We are in a state of shock, wondering, “What just happened here?”
Each day we hear about those attacked by this “invisible enemy” as it is sometimes called, and how many are sick and how many have died. The news is devastating, and our world has turned into an unfamiliar environment of fear and anxiety. We become aware that this enemy shows no partiality as to race, creed, nationality, beliefs, age, or gender. We grieve the loss of life and we pray for the sick. We grieve too, the loss of job, security, and freedom.
However, amid all the despair and sorrow, we begin to see the good emerge. In our world are many loving and caring people, and although we do not seem to hear about them much, they have always been there. Now during our unsettled world, we see them reaching out to those in need. Regardless of any differences, they come together as a force of strength and care for others.
It is not hard to find these good people sharing material things, but also helping others connect with those they love in quarantine. Their little and big acts of kindness brighten up stressful days. Such compassion and kindness are inspiring and comforting when you hear and see such desolation. Instead of hearing about the deeds of villains, we hear stories of heroes and those who give their lives caring for others. We see hospital staff, caregivers, first responders and volunteers working beyond the risk and the tiredness to bring help and healing to those who need it. “No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” (John 15:13) We see this Bible verse come to life in this time, in those who have lost their lives for others.
All these good people, who are sharing God’s love within them, create a positive energy that flows among his people bringing graces of hope and comfort. As we struggle and cope together through this pandemic, these “candles” of God are a bright light for all of us. These are God’s faithful ones, those who know his love and reach out to touch the hearts of others who do not yet know God’s love. Prayers are powered by love and we need to pray for each other.
Let us encourage one another by holding on to the hope we see and use this time to grow closer to God, who is our Hope and our Light. May we especially reach out to anyone who feels hopeless for we can all be candles for others. We can get through this together.
Copyright © 2024 Marsha Luke – Rights for non-commercial reproduction granted: May be copied in its entirety, but neither retyped nor edited.