revtlmack

All the places that want the country to open back up after five weeks didn’t make it through Katrina and Rita… people and families lost everything: lives, homes, jobs, memories… took months and years to rebuild… some still haven’t rebuilt… people were displaced to whole new cities and situations.

It was seven weeks before the lower 9th ward to open for a “look and leave.” Which was only the beginning of their long journey back.

Many other places in this nation have “recovered” from much worse circumstances than being asked to “shelter in place” and practice good hygiene.

We are resilient, strong, resurrected people

These measures may seem extreme… they may feel unjust or unrealistic… I, too, long for the day when we see a “new normal.”

I am sad for those who are adversely affected by these circumstances… loss of life, loss of social contact, loss of jobs…so, I will pray for all… especially for those in circumstances and situations much more difficult than I can ever know…

But, as for me, as for now, I will remain faithful… for my sake and for the sake of the greater good… I will trust in God and I will wait…

…I will, also, be thankful. I haven’t met a storm that God couldn’t quiet… even in this time…

I will praise God for His steadfast love.

I will praise God for the creativity of His children.

I will praise God for stronger families being built in these days.

I will praise God for the health care industry professionals for, literally and actually, risking their lives for my safety.

I will praise God for the doctors and nurses who prayed at the bedside of a church member in her final moments this week… because her family, nor I, could not be with her… (don’t be ignorant to the amazing, faithful presence of God in all situations).

I will praise God for the many who are being made well: mind, body and Spirit.

I will praise God for the many technologies that we have in 2020 to meet the challenges of connection and working from home in days such as this.

I will praise God for the many “service” industry personnel who are the glue that is holding our communities together.

I will praise God for the economy that still has life from people who are supporting local restaurants and businesses to the stimulus money from the government.

I will praise God for the many comforts of my home… a/c, especially.

My favorite definition of the word, “hope:”

“Hope was born the day the first human saw the first bridge and decided to cross over instead of jump off in despair.”

So, I will be faithful…and trusting…and I will wait… and pray…and praise…and be thankful and I will hope.

Blessings.