People are protesting the shut-downs and lock-downs caused by this mysterious virus while doctors and scientists are still working to find a vaccine and unlock some of the mystery. The President has set forth a plan for re-opening our country little by little as each state makes its own plans for recovery. It looks like it might be a long road back and many of us are ready to get going…but what are we going back to?
Many Christians have been (and are) praying for a different kind of change and a road that will lead us not only back to work, but back to decency. This will be a long one, I’m afraid. I try my best to stay optimistic and positive, but when I recall the shape our country was in before the pandemic…and I’m not talking economically…that road to change looks awfully long and full of potholes.
God tells us that in the world there will be tribulations (problems) but not to worry because He has overcome the world. We must be prepared to remind ourselves of this many times as we begin the road back. Our young people especially need direction as I’m sure they’ve been listening as we adults have tried to cope and maneuver our way through this unfamiliar territory. I know for a fact that many of them are placing the blame on our President which should not be happening. We’re in the same boat, so we must learn to row together without casting blame and finding fault…or sink.
My prayer is that many will find ways to hold onto the positive things we’ve learned in the last weeks. Things like: Don’t hoard the toilet paper when everybody is in need of it. Pay attention to what your kids have been learning at school…and not only the academics, but the ideas and beliefs they have garnered. Helping others is always a good idea no matter the circumstances. Family does matter…and keeping in touch is important. Listen to the advice of those in charge and discern what is best for you and yours. Most importantly, let go and let God.
Many of us have found ourselves closer to God while shut-off from society. May we always maintain that closeness and build on it. If He taught us a lesson or two, let’s share it with others who might be in need of the same help. The church buildings may be shut down for a while yet, but the literal church, His people, have many outlets to make our voices heard and His message sent out to the world…and those next to us are just as much in need.
Unfortunately, while we’ve been shut away, sin has not gone away. The drugs, sexual predators, lies, cheating, stealing, adultery, murder…it’s all still there and eager for us to resume our old ways of life. Let us be even more leery of sin than we are of other people as we venture back out into society.
My heart is especially sensitive to the well being of our kids and grand kids. I’ve heard the ‘music’ they listen to and seen a few of the videos they watch… games they play. Many of their heroes are rappers with a rap sheet a mile long. Recently I saw a clip from the remake of an old TV show, One Day at A Time. The star of the show, a young lady, was saying how glad she was to see her show being renewed and broadcast during this time while families can watch it together. In the clip they showed, the two main characters (teen-age siblings) were arguing about sex of course! So much for her idea of family TV shows, I thought. Where is Dennis the Menace when we need him? Or Father Knows Best? Or Gunsmoke? They can be found on channels like INSP, Hallmark, TV LAND…all too tame for kids these days. Once they’ve played Grand Theft Auto, Monopoly is old school or…I’m sure they have a word for it.
In short, it will take much prayer, caring and determination to get our society to embrace a change for the better…with God and His principles being taught and honored. But we know the One we have chosen to believe and if it is His will…and our hearts’ desire, it will happen…no matter how long or bumpy the road ahead becomes. If God is for us, who can be against us? So buckle up… and let’s do this!!