Peace & Purpose in the Face of Fear & Chaos

Have you ever wished you could freeze time?  You’d have a chance to catch up – to tackle your “to do list” and all the projects… Or maybe you’ve always wanted a “snow day?” Life would shut down so you could snuggle inside with board games, movies or a good book. 

God gives us a Sabbath Day every week on Sunday – a day of rest. Most of us don’t really set this day apart to refresh, slow down, or focus on Him.  In the midst of our world shutting down schools, entertainment, activities and life as we are used to, consider this time a blessing, as we are made to slow down. 

Nothing surprises God.  In fact, He is able to use circumstances like a pandemic for greater good and purpose.  That is His economy.  He draws people together and wakes us up to what is important. 

This week I’ve been proud to be an American, as I watched a news conference with top American companies, usually rivals – working together to streamline testing for the Coronavirus.  In addition, bills are being worked on and passed by both parties in our government.  Nationally, quarantined citizens in Italy stood on their balconies, singing their national anthem together, as cabin fever set in. 

Today the President of the United States called for a National Day of Prayer.  Prayer is powerful.  God hears us when we pray. It changes things.  Philippians 4:6-7 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”   

Our creator of heaven and earth will never leave us or forsake us.  He is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine.  His ways are higher than ours.  He can bring good out of difficult circumstances.  We can trust in our gracious God.

I want to be purposeful about living out my faith as a Christian during this time.  I will be walking my neighborhood and praying for my neighbors, asking God to show me those in need.  This is a time to be the light on a hill.  In Hebrews 13:16 it says, “And do not forget to do good and share with others, for with such sacrifice God is pleased.” 

Over the next few weeks, if there is something that I can share with an older neighbor or friend not able to make it to the store – I will do so.  I want to be the hands and feet of Jesus –  to serve – to bring purpose in place of fear and chaos.

Maybe your fear isn’t the virus, but what to do at home for the next few weeks! –   Make the most of this rare time with the following list of suggestions:

Ideas For Our Imposed “Stay-cation:”

1.  Read a good book

2.  Spring clean: cupboards, closets, kid’s rooms, attic, garage… (donate clothes that don’t fit/give away items)

3.  Plant spring flowers

4.  Play board games

5.  Work a puzzle (you have time 😉

6.  Try a new recipe

7.  Enjoy NOT putting on make up or blow drying hair/styling it… give your skin and hair a break

8.  Projects – decorate, photo albums, reorganize

9.  Goal planning/bucket list creating

10. Walks, hikes, exercise at home

11.  Bible Study – dig into a question or read a Gospel leading to Easter

12.  Catch up with friends and family on Face Time or phone calls

13.  Enjoy jammie days

14.  Nap

15.  Tackle your “To do list” that never gets all done