During the Covid-19 . . . thoughts to invade your mind

In light of the all that is happening around the country I found this adaptation of a conversation with the Lord … I pray this will bring you peace and comfort in these trying times.

God, I don’t mean to complain, but this situation we are in now, we are not going to get anything done

          Yes, maybe that’s the point.  You know how you keep spinning your wheels? Always working, moving, doing, but never feeling satisfied? Now, you have permission to stop.  Your calendars are clear, maybe you could remember that your worth is not tied to busyness, or your accomplishments. John 3:16 For God so loved you (not your career or achievements) that he sent Jesus to take the place of sacrifice for the sin in your life.

But what does this all mean?

          It means, you’re not in control. You’ll have to learn to release, to slow down, be in the moment.   It means you have a wonderful opportunity to be the light in a dark world. All you have to do is to take care of yourself and take care of each other. Matt 6:26 There is far more to your life than the food you put in your stomach, more to your outer appearance than the clothes you hang on your body. Look at the birds, free and unfettered, not tied down to a job description, careless in the care of God. And you count far more to him than birds.

What are we supposed to do when we can’t even leave our homes?

          Rest! You’re always so busy and overwhelmed, crying out to me exhausted. Now! The whole world has a break from the fast pasted, over scheduled lives. Go ahead and rest. Pray. Call old friends. Love your families. Be still, and maybe spend a little time with me.  Psalm 46:10 “Be still, and know that I am God.  I will be exalted among the nations,  I will be exalted in the earth!”

You mean, we’re supposed to stay home with our family all day, every day?

          Yes, and you’re going to be just fine.  And this time together – it’s a rare gift. The rush of daily life has come to a halt.  Play games, make cookies – teach them kindness and grace.  Show them how to endure difficult circumstances. Help them find small moments of wonder.  Deut. 4:39  Know this well, then. Take it to heart right now: God is in Heaven above; God is on Earth below. He’s the only God there is.

But I’m worried and scared – and I need to hoard for what may come.

          Preparedness, Yes. Precaution, Yes. Prevention, Yes. But after that it’s time to put the needs of others before your own. When you see someone in need help them.  1 Peter 4:8 Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.

But God, can’t you just make all of this stop?

          I created the world, I set the sun and moon in motion, but I gave every living organism free will. Including animals, plants – even microorganisms and bacteria’s.  They all produce and act without my control.  But I am here to give you courage and strength, to remind you of your purpose and what life is all about.  Proverbs 19:21 Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails.

But God, we are scared!

          Remember, in my hand I hold the souls of every living thing. You’re not alone, you need not be afraid. Remember – you are loved and held by me. Psalm 73:23 Nevertheless, I am continually with you; you hold my right hand.

Know that tomorrow is truly a gift and we are blessed to have had today.  God has a plan for each of us and giving Him glory is at the center.  May you find your rest in Him, your peace in His presence and your joy in knowing that you are not alone.

In His Service,
Chaplain Jeff Hastings