Keep in touch – easy to say – more difficult to do.  Even in the calmest of times, keeping in touch with friends and relatives takes purposeful action on both sides.  Right now, we are being asked not to touch.  To keep gatherings to a minimum and practice “social distancing”, avoiding physical contact with other people.

I was having a conversation with one of my sisters this afternoon.  She is a very social person and likes to be doing things with other friends.  She is also very cautious about her health, so she is keeping her social distance.  She remarked that she was going to try “distant socializing”.

Aha!  I thought that was a great idea.  I do need to keep in touch with others during this worrisome time.   I want to check in and find out how my family and friends are doing.  The information that I receive may not always be good.   Today I found out that one sister in California and her family are struggling with this virus; another friend in Vermont just lost her husband to the disease.  One of my Florida sisters is volunteering for a UF medical study and making fabric face masks.  Another sister is recovering from cancer surgery and dealing with future treatments decisions.  This personal news makes the world’s news more real and relevant.

Interest in the welfare of others helps us unite in a common purpose and a common prayer for healing. Reaching out is a physical act of love, even if there are no hugs or kisses.

You know who else we practice “distant socializing” with?  Our loving Father God, His Son and the Holy Spirit.  Every prayer, plea, cry and conversation that we have with God is a form of distant socializing.  It strengthens our relationship and builds on joint experiences and information.

In fact, I think that God is the easiest Being to keep in touch with.  He is always available.  His line is never busy.  He is present constantly.  And He loves you unconditionally!  Keep in touch!

Terri

Ephesians 6:18 ¹⁸And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the LORD’s people.