Read: 
Isaiah 40:28-31; Psalm 121; 1 Peter 5:6-11

The phrase that will get added to our dictionaries and lexicons for 2020 will undoubtedly be “Social Distancing.”  This phrase has been used so much in the past couple of weeks as we try to avoid other people, stand 6 feet apart, not shake hands, and wash our hands as often as possible.  That’s difficult! It’s hard not to engage with other people because we are a social bunch. 

Hopefully before long we can begin to gather in groups again.  But during this time when we are distancing ourselves from others, how about we take our relationship with Jesus to a new level.  How about we spend more time in prayer, reading the Bible, listening to sermons, reflecting on devotionals, or engaging in Bible Studies online or on television.  It’s during times like these that we really need more heavenly engagement than earthly entertainment.

The scripture passages listed in this week’s reflection are great places to start.  They talk about where to cast your anxiety, where to lift your eyes for help, and where you can draw strength during this time.  If you go searching you will find many more. God’s Word is full of promise and hope for times of difficulty, challenge, and suffering.   Instead of filling all of our down time at home with “other things” how about we fill it with “helpful things” or “spiritual things.”

Until these times of distance begin to change, I am reminded of the words that John wrote in 2 John 1:12.  He said, “I have much to write to you, but I do not want to use paper and ink (or computer screen and internet).  Instead, I hope to visit you and talk with you face to face, so that our joy may be complete.” May we remain steadfast and joyful during this time of change, but let us look forward to the day when we can once again meet together face to face.

Make it Personal:  Think about how you spend your time these days.  How much of your time is spent on things that add to your worry and fear (news, movies, social media)?  How much of it is spent on family (children, spouse, friends)? How much of it is spent on heavenly engagement (prayer, Bible reading and study, sermons, or outreach)?  Hopefully you can find a balance that is good for you and good for your relationship with Jesus and others.