We are deeply into a global pandemic. Consumed, obsessed, we wonder when it will end. How do we quantify “the long haul”? Weeks, or months yet? What of Easter? Maybe we should stick to our Lenten discipline. Ponder how God may be shaping and forming us in this journey that is so surreal at times. Take solace in what our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ endured in the Garden of Gethsemane. He said to his disciples, “sit here while I go over there and pray” (Matthew 26:36). He had some pondering to do. His heart was crushing, breaking. Apprehending one’s impending death will do that to a person. Jesus isolated himself for a moment alone with his Heavenly Father. I think about and pray for those who right now are afflicted with this coronavirus. Isolated. Where we are now, Jesus has been. Socially distant; painfully anguished in soul. He is a Redeemer who knows intimately doubt and despair.

These are difficult, painful times for those prone to depression, also those who are programmed to be huggers, social butterflies. These sacrifices we are making during a Lenten pandemic seem almost unbearable to some people. But we who are in Christ Jesus have hope as our barometer. Jesus picked himself off the ground, having released his burden to God. I encourage you all to tap into that hope which is certainly in you. Even in these desperate, uncertain times we dare to be optimists. We will get through this. It will not last. Yes, we may enter a new normal. Not only public health, but the economy, will  take some time to bounce back. The blessings we had before this outbreak are still there. We can take more time now to enjoy them, to not take them for granted. We can support each other, yes, even from six feet and more! We need not be fearful. God has and will overcome far more. We are resolute with the hope, the optimism that is in us. Even as we struggle and ponder during our time of social distancing. God’s redemptive, unconditional love is freely offered, especially for such times as these. What a golden opportunity to share this with the downtrodden and despairing! The goodness of God springs forth. Perceive it. Yes, even embrace it! You will not “catch” anything except that unconditional love.

Pastor Art