Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed,
for his compassions never fail.
They are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.

Lamentations 3:22-23

 

Many of us are feeling pain right now, whether it be physical or emotional. Pain of our own or the pain of others. We need each others’ support. That’s especially true for those who are alone.

Has there ever been a time when it’s been so hard getting together with friends and family? I believe there are many right now who are not doing well and could use our consideration.

Compassion is awakened when we’re able to put ourselves in another’s shoes. That’s not so hard to do right now. We’re all pretty well in the same boat. When we’re able to feel what the other person feels and show we care by connecting with them, we’re letting them know they matter. That, in itself, makes a person feel a lot less alone.

During these times of social distancing, getting together in person is not possible for most of us. But we do have the telephone and should be grateful for that. It’s easy to pick it up and remind each other we’re thinking of them—to let them know they’re not forgotten. Or, how about getting some lawn chairs together and arranging with two or three friends to meet at a park? If it works well, you could plan this to be a weekly event.

Fortunately, we who have faith, have a God from whom we do not have to maintain a distance. As long as we don’t forget to spend some quiet times with him, shutting the rest of the world out, we can get as close to God as we like.

When we have a faith we are blessed, because faith gives us hope. Faith helps us trust that Someone far greater than ourselves is in charge. Believing this is always important, but especially in a crisis like we are now experiencing.

Note this line in the scripture above: “His compassions never fail.” Although I wouldn’t say I’m suffering at the moment, just reading that line comforts me. But it wasn’t written for you or me alone. It was written for all who are suffering. That promise is intended to comfort everyone. And today that would include the entire population of the world that has been affected by COVID-19. There are so many of us! It’s overwhelming.

And yet, the Creator of all is looking down. He cares about each one of us.

God speaks through the author of Lamentations when he tells us that “we are not consumed.” His hand will hold us steady.

“Do not be afraid. I am with you.”

marja

I want to share one of my favourite hymns. Great is Thy Faithfulness by Austin Stone Worship Live – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2eQ1oal44wU