"Clearly, this world only offers the minimum to us. There are no guarantees here and our current situation proves the point."
It seems that each week we are asked to adjust to another government recommendation, accept another approximate COVID-19 vaccine release date, and even ponder our comfort level with the relaxation of the social distancing mandate. This constant shifting about, though understandable, is nonetheless destabilizing.
Simply put, one of the potential takeaways from this pandemic experience is that much of what we value is subject to sudden change and lies far outside our control. As such, we might consider periodically assessing our values to ensure that they are consistent with our spiritual values and God’s will, where true consistency lies.
I the Lord do not change. (New International Version, Malachi 3:6)
Change is the only constant in our lives, however. And, for many, that lack of predictability leads to destabilizing frustration in the struggle to make the needed adjustments to meet those changes.
It can bring us comfort, however, to know that God presents us with universal principles of love, service, and truth that are unwavering. We indeed have something in our lives that remains steadfast. In God, we have this dependable resource that can be particularly supportive for our emotional well-being.
Without question, we must conform to many expectations to care for our families, but we are admonished to not love the things of this unstable world.
Do not love the world or anything in the world. (1 John 2:15)
We can easily see the wisdom in this text as we watch our global economy flounder, resembling the historic Great Depression. Our unemployment levels are climbing at a rate previously unseen in the United States with no clear projection of return to levels boasted merely 4 months ago. We observe these transitions with absolutely no control over these critical matters-matters that could cause us to lose life’s most basic necessities.
Clearly, this world only offers the minimum to us. There are no guarantees here and our current situation proves the point.
Let’s arise from these ashes in the months to come with renewed purpose to serve others, love the stranger at our gates, and speak the truth even when it may be inconvenient. These virtues will stand firm despite what the world takes from you.
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