It’s just that it feels really heavy right now…I know…
I don’t need to remind you of how COVID19 invaded our world, shook our foundations, fractured our normalcy, and muddied our waters. For some, its impact resulted in an overwhelming loss; for others, isolation and anxiety. It impacted all our lives in one way or another. Some of us continue to be in the thick of it. Many of us are still trying to find our footing in a relatively new unwanted normal. There are days when it can feel like a heavy blanket of snow, making it difficult for us to move.
In the early months of COVID19, I found myself questioning who I was and where to find purpose, as most activities and interactions that made me “come alive” were suddenly, and for the foreseeable future, put on pause. As I fumbled along, grief for losses of long ago rose to the surface. Yet, along with the grief, came reminders of God’s never-failing tender care and provision. I forced myself to dig deep and was blessed as God provided, and I took part in, a number of virtual Bible studies. As I learned new truths and was reminded of God’s past faithfulness, a sense of peace slowly settled in my soul.
I feel that this strange season is a “once in a lifetime” opportunity and I have a choice. I can lay low and focus only on how to stay safe or I can take wise precautions while seeking out opportunities to support others, in whatever way is currently allowed. My prayer, through these months, has been for God to draw me close to His heart; to deepen my faith and my love for Him; and to firm up my spiritual foundation. When things settle down, and restrictions are finally lifted, I pray I will be a different person, a freer person, one who loves better and wider, and is more gentle and thoughtful with words.
And there’s good news! Our God of the universe is still on His throne! We can rest securely knowing that our lives are in His loving hands. I pray that you too can draw near to His heart and, in so doing, find peace in the midst of whatever storm you’re currently facing. I pray you will have strength for each day; that you will sense God’s leading and have the energy to respond. And in the moments when life’s storm tries to blow you off balance; when you find yourself carrying the burdens of fear and anxiety, remember Jesus’ words, “Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” (Matt. 11:28-30) Close your eyes and walk, in your mind, towards Jesus, who waits with open arms. Feel the warmth of His embrace and the lifting of your burdens. Lay your head against His shoulder and exhale. Now rest a moment, dear sister.
We are His beloved daughters.
The Lord your God is with you.
He will never leave you nor forsake you. (Deut. 31:6)
We are not alone.
Today is a new day.
Let’s make it count!
About Cathy:
Cathy is a 60-year-old early retiree who loves the cozy home she shares with her husband in a rural community in Southwestern, Ontario, Canada. She was raised on a busy farm, the second youngest of seven. Cathy’s 4 grown children (+3 spouses), along with her toddler grandson (whom she can hardly wait to squeeze again) continue to bring a steady dose of sunshine into her life. Cathy loves “being there” for people. She is passionate about hospice volunteering and gaining an understanding of racial issues. She is thrilled to have (somewhat late) discovered the world of audiobooks and podcasts. Her long-time favorite sport of thrift store shopping is now taking a back seat to her new goal of minimizing her home (to spare her kids undue suffering, someday!). In her spare time, she enjoys interior decorating, organizing, and then reorganizing. Cathy knows, first hand, about great joy and also about deep grief. Through it all, Cathy knows of God’s faithfulness.
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