In Challenging Times – Part 1
Difficult Times
There are moments in our lives we will never forget. There are moments in which we wish we could forget. Or at least fast forward through. Moments like the unexpected diagnosis, the loss of a loved one, or even this coronavirus outbreak. Our normal routines have been disrupted for the foreseeable future. To want to fast forward through this crisis would be normal, but perhaps there is an unexpected blessing.
The Scriptures are filled with verses meant to encourage us in more challenging moments. Over the next few days, we will be sharing some of them with you. Hopefully, by the power of the Spirit, will provide a source of encouragement and strengthen our hearts and resolve.
2 Corinthians 1:3-5
3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and the God of all consolation, 4 who consoles us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to console those who are in any affliction with the consolation with which we ourselves are consoled by God. 5 For just as the sufferings of Christ are abundant for us, so also our consolation is abundant through Christ.
In Paul’s letter to the Corinthians, he identifies God as “The Father of mercies and God of all consolation.” More importantly, God consoles us in our afflictions. He is present, holding us in our most trying times. Thanks be to God!
But that’s not all. God consoles us so that we may be able to console those who are in any affliction with the same consolation that God has given us. To be comforted and strengthened by God empowers us and compels us to console others who are or may be hurting.
This is a painful and difficult time for many within our community, but it’s also an opportunity to speak and bring healing to it. It is an opportunity to demonstrate our love for God and one another within our community.
As we ride this storm out together I urge you to be on the lookout for those who are more vulnerable. Whether they are our seniors, or our neighbors who work at daycares or restaurants. We have been blessed by God, even in the midst of challenging circumstances. Let us be a blessing to others.
Here are some things we can all do together.
- Buy a few extra items at the grocery store and give them to your local food bank. Here are a few local options.
–Mattie N. Dixon – N. Spring Garden Street, Ambler
–Inter-Faith Food Cupboard – Roslyn, PA
- If restaurants are open – get something to-go and tip generously
- Do you have youth hanging out in the house? Then see if they can watch someone’s little ones so their parents can go to work. Or a break for their own sanity. (Only do this if you’re healthy. And responsible.)
- Be a neighborhood captain -check in on your neighbors and see what they may need.
- If you know of someone in need – contact Eric and he will organize a team to run basic errands for those in need.
Whatever you do. Do it to the glory of God.
Oh. One more thing. Wash your hands.