I’ve been home for almost three years since I went out on disability. Yet this scenario is very different. When I first went out on disability it was very difficult. My normal routine was interrupted.
What have I learned that I can continue to apply today?
First of all, we are being told to REFRESH. That's the language I want to use today.
My computer recently crashed. Not sure what caused it to stop working. I have three options. I can RESET the computer which means my files will be deleted. I can do a RESTORE which means I can go back to square one with nothing in my computer. Or I can do a REFRESH.
In the middle of this Coronavirus I interpret “staying at home” as a REFRESH. Life as “usual” has changed but praise God we haven't lost everything! If you are reading this then you are alive, glory to God!
I often must look at life through God's lens. My own heart and vision are tainted by sin. I am so susceptible to fear and if I’m not careful anxiety will make me a prisoner.
“Solar Flare” by Larry Burkett, a book I read about 20 years ago was about a solar flare, a phenomenon that wiped out all of the electronics the world. One of the takeaways I remember after I read this book was that families had reunited. children were once again playing together, and the dreaded home-school scenario was in full operation with excellent results! I felt such peace at the end of this horror-like book.
The world had a REFRESH for sure! This catastrophe brought families and communities together again.
So, what am I saying? What do I tell myself? Revel during this REFRESH and reconnect. We often don't have time to call family and friends but now we do. And guess what they'll be home to answer your call!
I think of humor during this time as well. Some of those memes on social media are really funny. I'm sure some are thinking, “My home is finally clean, and no one can come over.” The introvert is saying “what's the big deal.”
My miscellaneous draw is finally clean. Cooking has become an adventure. Who would have thought that fast food was a critical life staple? Actually, this Bronx girl can use some White Castle about now!
During this crisis there are real serious concerns. We need to do whatever we can to help our families our neighbors and even the stranger. But we must abide by the guidelines.
Perhaps we can have a delivery service drop off some food to someone in need. There are services still in operation. we must get creative and use them without breaking the law.
Prayer anchors my heart to the Lord’s heart. Let's pray and see what God will reveal and do in our families. Some of our prayers are being answered during this time.
May the God of heaven make provision for your household. May you not lack food, shelter or health. As many have lost jobs may the Lord himself provide from his bounty for your family.
Stay encouraged! Enjoy those gifts that God has given to you, those children that are filled with creativity and talents. Discover them afresh and a new. Take this time to be REFRESHED!
By the way there are many books in the Bible that are less than 15 chapters. Challenge yourself to read one or two or three of those books during the next 15 days. James, 1st and 2nd Peter, 1st , 2nd and 3rd John, and the book of Jude are just a few. The book of Hebrews only has 13 chapters. Philippians, Colossians, 1st and 2nd Thessalonians, 1st and 2nd Timothy, and Titus all have only a few chapters. Take the challenge!
May you take the time to sit at his feet and listen as he speaks to you . Be encouraged and be REFRESHED. The birds are singing.
"Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful." John 14:27
God bless you!~Liz
