Emerging with Hope

The current COVID 19 Crisis has often been described as 'unprecedented'. Whether at church, work, home or in our communities we see the reality that we have never navigated a situation like this.

Phrases that once were never heard of are unsettling familiar to us now - social distancing, flattening the curve, stay safe at home, 6 feet apart is the magic number. But as a country, it is encouraging to see the resilient spirit of Americans. Following the guidelines, protecting our selves, families and being courteous of others will help us as we navigate through this trying time.

Although currently we are in the midst of this crisis and each day brings heartbreaking news of loss, now is a time to pray and support one another. But we can also lift our hearts and eyes to the future - and be assured this will pass. We will without a doubt suffer and be forever changed be changed by this time in our lives, but life will eventually move on. What will we be like when 'normal' returns? What will we take from this experience?

This devotional thought came through my email and it is a powerful source of help and hope.

Hope in the Midst of Crisis

Though God did not cause this crisis, I am confident that He will not waste this crisis. My heart is filled with anticipation of a healthier Church emerging from these troubled days.

I HOPE THAT THIS CRISIS WILL…

awaken our hearts to the sacred.
loosen our attachment to the shiny.
jolt us into new respect for freedom.
transition our faith in faith to faith in God.
inspire gratitude in us for the simple and small.
remind us that Jesus is our Source, not our servant.
expose any wealthy worries as the thorny fruit of privilege.
unmask entertainment that has been masquerading as discipleship.
redefine “contentment” with more sustainable (and attainable) ingredients.
burn off unhealthy fat that has collected around (and weighed down) our faith.
empower us to never again mistake abundance for obedience or emotion for devotion.
shock us with our spiritual shallowness and drive us anew to the depth of God’s Word.
reveal anything that--though it may “sell” well in Western Christianity--isn’t strong enough to stand on.
wean us from the noise inherent to prosperity and give us ears to hear what the Spirit is saying to the Church.

Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in ...

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