Such a strange time in our world...people sick and dying. Some of us self-isolating, some of us continuing to work at jobs that are deemed "essential." Kudos to those in the medical field and others who choose to expose themselves to this virus in order to help others in need.
Needless to say, none of this has caught God by surprise. My prayer is that our society as a whole will turn to Him during this challenging time. He is truly our only hope. "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear." Psalm 46:1-2
I'm writing this because I've been thinking a lot about isolation. When we lived in Alaska, it was brought to my attention that there were people in the local nursing home who never had visitors. In addition to that, some of them never came out of their rooms to participate in activities with other residents. Completely self-isolated, except for an occasional visit from a nurse or an aide bringing them food. Such a lonely existence.
It is my sincere hope that when this quarantine is over (unsure how long it will be at this time), we will consider people who live in isolation every day of their lives. Those in nursing homes, hospitals, shut-ins at home...so many in our communities who are lonely and craving human interaction. Let's commit to remember how it feels to be separated from our families, our neighbors, and the rest of the world. Remember how it feels to not be able to go to the store, eat out at a restaurant, have coffee with a friend, etc. This is the everyday "norm" for so many people.
I pray that God will give us empathy for their ongoing way of life and remind us to reach out with love and compassion. Make plans to visit someone the moment we no longer have to "shelter in place." I guarantee that you will be more blessed by reaching out than the person you visit! "Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for Me." Matthew 5:40
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