What Do You Do When Life Slows Down?
Steve W. Reeves
West Side Church of Chrrist, Searcy, Arkansas
For people who are used to
running at break-neck speed, an unexpected event that forces us to slow down
can be unnerving. The current outbreak of COVID 19 has forced schools to close,
restaurants to offer “carry out” only, churches and civic gatherings to be
suspended, concerts postponed and athletics to be canceled. Travel plans have
been changed and shopping has become a challenge. To say tthat the normal schedule
of life has been interrupted would be an understatement.
The way I see it, the current slowdown can be addressed in one of two ways. Some might choose to wring their hands in worry and lament lost productivity. They closely monitor the news to keep up with the latest numbers of virus cases and the fluctuations in the stock market. With each report they feel their grip on life slipping away. Such constant worry is prime breeding ground for fear, anxiety and panic.
On the other hand we can use this time of slowing down in constructive ways. If you have school-aged children at home spend time with them. Discuss their on-line assignments and provide activities that will engage them physically, socially and spiritually. Mothers might use the occasion to teach their daughters a favorite recipe. Fathers might help their sons build a model car or airplane. Families can play “Uno,” or Bible trivia. Jigsaw puzzles can be spread across dining room tables. Above all there can be times spent reading and discussing God’s Word and praying for His protection and comfort.
The church, too,, has a tremendous opportunity. We often remind people that the church is “not a building.” Here is our chance to prove it! We can “be” the church by ministering to others. Call or text others in your spiritual family. Be sure to check on those who are elderly or alone. Deliver groceries or supplies to those who must stay at home. Send cards of encouragement.
In the mid 1800’s “Yellow fever” ravaged many parts of the south. In Nashville, Tennessee, the number of sick and dying multiplied each day to astonishing levels. A preacher named David Lipscomb used his team and wagon to deliver supplies and transport people, inclusing Catholic nuns, into the affected areas of the city. It’s no wonder that Lipscomb’s influence became so great that he is still listed as one of the greatest Tennesseans in history.
For most of
us, Lord willing, this virus will pass without lasting consequences, School
will resume and normal activities will slowly resume. Whenever that occurs may
we look back on this time without regret, knowing that we used the occasion
constructively to strengthen our relatitonships with our family, friends,
church and God.
