Changed for Good

“How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.”  – Anne Frank

Trials have a way of shaking us out of our comfort zones and complacency.  They cause us to wake up:  to take notice of ourselves and those around us,  to question the status quo, and to evaluate our priorities.

We seldom think about our First Amendment rights, including freedom of assembly and public worship-  yet those are values we have come to greatly appreciate in these past few weeks.

Think back on the defining moments of your life, the significant “game-changing moments” that caused you to grow and shaped you into who you are today.  Were they mostly the highlights, or were they the refining trials of life?

Trials can refine us creating positive change and bringing beauty out of ashes.

Don’t we all want to become refined, have our rough edges shaved off, and develop endurance, strength of character, and the confident hope of salvation? 

Paul teaches us about trials in Romans 5:3-5 (NLT):  ^“We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. ⁴ And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. ⁵ And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.”

Our nation will never be the same.  Through this pain and adversity, we will be changed.  As our nation comes together in solidarity-  neighbor helping neighbor; doctors, nurses, leaders all working around the clock to serve; churches praying  -we will emerge stronger and transformed.

The way we appreciate our freedoms–  simply meeting together, eating at restaurants, taking vacations, using the gym, celebrating birthdays, and gathering for worship-  will no longer be taken for granted.

What do you have a new appreciation for right now?  What positive changes have you witnessed these past few weeks?

The stories of generosity and kindness that have been taking place across the country have uplifted me,  inspired me, and warmed my heart:  food banks giving away thousands of bags of food, small restaurants providing food for hospital staff, drive-by birthday celebrations bringing cheer, and communities banning together.

We have a new appreciation for the sacrifice and work ethic of grocery clerks and delivery personnel.  There is an increased friendliness in neighborhoods and on walks, as we recognize the value of others and the need for love and human interaction.

This is a time to reflect on the changes that have taken place over the past several weeks.   

What has stood out to you?  What changes would you like to see remain?  How has this trial changed you thus far?

Let’s open a dialogue-  share your thoughts and comment below.