Undoubtedly we are living in a time that we haven’t experienced before. We are virtually in lockdown! We are only allowed to go out for essential supplies. Over the past few weeks, it would be fair to say that some people have been so afraid of what’s happening. Consumers have been stocking supplies such as toilet paper, tissues, hand soap, sanitiser, panadol, ventolin, flour, rice, pasta, long-life milk, petrol and much more. Actually some are doing the un-Australian act to get their hands on such products. People everywhere are anxious and worried. Hugging and handshakes are no longer allowed. 1.5 metres distance is required at all times. Only 2 people together at a time is permissible. Many borders across the world have been closed from state to state. Schools are now learning from home. People in the workforce are working from home where possible. Politicians are working together for the best outcome for our countries. All sporting events, worldwide, right down to local sports have been put on hold. Restaurants, cafes, pools, parks, beaches, cinemas, churches, and gyms have all been closed. Quarantine for 2 weeks is essential when entering into borders. Weddings have been limited to 5 people and funerals 10. People are contracting this virus rapidly and many are admitted to hospitals, some on ventilators, some in ICU and sadly some pass away.
For many of us and our children, much has been taken away. Learning with friends, working closely with colleagues, playing sports, going places as a family such as shacks, barbecues, drives etc, non-essential shopping, attending church services, going to the local skate park etc. are all things that we cannot do for a period of time. Note, an unknown period of time. This could be 1 month, 3 or 6. We are pretty much isolated, at home with the people we live with.
I’ve been thinking about how I view this season. Do I see this as all doom and gloom? Do I live in fear? Do I jump up and down because life is different and so much has been taken away and I’ve been told that I can’t do this or that?
Truthfully, I admit, it’s been a challenge. Teaching from home and having my children learning from home. I totally miss hugging people. There was a time when I was becoming so consumed with statistics and information regarding COVID-19 that I wasn’t listening to the news but scrolling the news. Since deleting Facebook from my phone, it’s not as easily accessible.
But for me, I don’t see things as doom and gloom, nor am I living in fear. I am so grateful for many things and believe God will take what the enemy meant for evil and turn it for good. I do not live in fear because I have the peace and hope of the Lord Jesus and for that, I am deeply grateful for. Though the world around us may be chaotic and at times appear to be a losing battle, we as Christians can stand firm, because we know the end story.
We can choose to see the gold and practice gratitude. I am thankful that our government has put strict guidelines in place for our safety. I am so grateful for technology because I can still connect with my family, friends, church, students etc.
My ‘normal’ life is pretty crazy with teaching, 3 children (1 with a chronic illness), afterschool and weekend sports, commitment to a local church, and family and friend connections. I feel like God is using this season to slow me down to regroup, refocus and regain. I believe God has stopped me from being busy, to become still and prepare. I can use this season for His glory or not. I’m choosing to represent the Father as well as I can, to be positive, to care, to connect, and to spend quality time in the Word and in prayer.
How do you see this season of life? Is your cup half full? What is the Lord saying to you?
Please take care everyone and speak out the goodness of the Lord.
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