The increased conversation around vaccinations is making for relational divides at work, in churches, families, businesses, schools and communities.
Relationally, this is a difficult time and practically, it is too. Rescheduled events, moving deadlines and altered plans can leave a person feeling unstable. While these relational and practical challenges can be frustrating, our shifting world is causing many to look more intentionally to connect to something or someone lasting, trustworthy and unchanging. What an incredible time for believers to present the unchanging hope of our friend Jesus to our world. According to an article in the Telegraph Global, “The coronavirus pandemic has resulted in a 50 per cent surge in online searches for prayer as people turn to religion to cope with feelings of anxiety and hopelessness, new research has found.” People everywhere are feeling the squeeze and searching for something stable and certain.
The increased conversation around vaccinations is making for relational divides at work, in churches, families, businesses, schools and communities.
Relationally, this is a difficult time and practically, it is too. Rescheduled events, moving deadlines and altered plans can leave a person feeling unstable. While these relational and practical challenges can be frustrating, our shifting world is causing many to look more intentionally to connect to something or someone lasting, trustworthy and unchanging. What an incredible time for believers to present the unchanging hope of our friend Jesus to our world. According to an article in the Telegraph Global, “The coronavirus pandemic has resulted in a 50 per cent surge in online searches for prayer as people turn to religion to cope with feelings of anxiety and hopelessness, new research has found.” People everywhere are feeling the squeeze and searching for something stable and certain.
There were several times throughout the evening Mary’s eyes widened and she looked up as if she could see something unbelievable. I wondered if she could see Jesus who I knew was present in the room.
That evening would be her last here on earth. When I arrived in her small room, fuzzy noise came from the small radio in the corner. The sound was irritating, and I could only imagine how it was ringing in Mary’s ears as she was already uncomfortable. I turned off the radio and tapped the Spotify app on my phone to find soothing worship. We were both comforted as we listened together, anticipating. She, her new home, and I, a final goodbye.
Life can feel chaotic and we all have stresses that can weigh us down at times. However, God has provided a rhythm for our lives so we can live in step with his Spirit, his timing and his plans. Three key aspects of Sabbath rest are: Creation, Limitation, and Liberation.