Waves of sadness, uncertainty, and dread washed over me, hearing the news that we will not be returning to school this year and we will continue to shelter in place. So many lasts and firsts being swept away in the tide. My heart hurts for those grieving the most-the Kindergarteners who won’t get to have their concerts or picnics, Seniors who can’t celebrate with their friends and walk the halls of their school one last time, Fifth grade DARE graduates who won’t get to receive their awards or jump in the mud pit signaling their launch into Junior High, baseball and softball games that won’t get played. The tears fall for each person facing loss of tradition and those facing loss of loved ones hit by the virus.
While I tune in to listen to Governor Dewine and Dr. Acton, looking for a light at the end of the tunnel or a glimmer of hope, the news rarely satisfies and I am still left with unrest. There is one thing that does provide peace, comfort, and assurance, God’s word, which has brought comfort in so many times of difficulty throughout history.
The character of God is described in the Bible. As we read it, we are reminded of how God fulfills our every need and our every feeling of hurt and sadness. Here are a few ways God’s word can fill the holes in our spirits during this time. These words point us to focus on who God is and how His character offers peace in the face of our fears.
*I am afraid of the virus and what could happen if anyone I love gets it.
Peace is what I leave with you; it is my own peace that I give you. I do not give it as the world does. Do not be worried and upset; do not be afraid.” ~ John 14:27
*I cannot keep doing this homeschool, shelter in place thing, I am not cut out for this.
I can do all this through Christ who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13
*I am worried about money, job loss, providing for my family.
He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things? Romans 8:32
*Why is this happening? Everything good is being taken away from us.
I will meditate on the glorious splendor of Your majesty, and on Your wondrous works. People shall speak of the might of Your awesome acts, and I will declare Your greatness. They shall utter the memory of Your great goodness, and shall sing of Your righteousness. Psalm 145:5-7
Just reading these words may not fully give you comfort, but consider what it means that God is all of these things. He is great, powerful, generous, our strength, and our peace. If we turn towards Him, we will experience true peace, peace that lasts.
Prayer: God you are worthy of our praise. We want to find peace and comfort in so many other things that fail us, the news, finances, false hope. None of these things offer lasting peace and comfort. You give us peace that never leaves, comfort that covers us and will help us not only during this difficult time, but for the rest of our lives. Help us to trust in your unfailing love, your goodness, your peace. Fill us with your strength, and a calm that can withstand the storms we are in. Amen.
