Back to [a new] Normal
I’m a pretty positive guy. I like to see the glass as half-full and to look for the bright side of things. And that’s just what I have been focusing on during these recent weeks as we have journeyed through a season of uncertainty, pandemic, and in very recent days, the shared tragedies of injustice and racism.
All the while, I have been seeking to remain positive and to live with hope. And my hope for the coming weeks as we emerge from this season, is not that we would return to normal, but that we would establish a new normal: that we would move forward with the intention of being better.
I know that while it may be frustrating at times to be ‘stuck at home,’ I have been able to spend more time with my kids and wife than I have ever before. I want to continue that. I want to continue to be a present, interested and engaged father. That’s something that I’m guarding as part of my new normal. That’s something that will help me be better.
In our church, our pastoral care team has been working to connect with every family in our directory on a regular basis. I know as well, that many of our people have taken it upon themselves to reach out to their church family, to check in, to share a word of encouragement, or to even share some baking. I hope this renewed sense of connection and communication continues as part of our new normal.
As well, in recent days we have been reminded of the injustice that exists in our world. I hope and pray that our new normal would be marked with Christlike love extended and shared to everyone in our community. And church, let’s not forget that we have a central part to play in ensuring that future exists. Micah 6:8 says, “…What does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” That’s a call that I hope is an anthem for the church in our new normal.
As the seasons change and we transition to days of reopening, readjustment, and reestablishment, I’m hopeful that we - both as individuals and as a society - have learned from our past mistakes, and are committed to being better.
Scripture is full of verses that both motivate us and encourage us in days of change. I was drawn to a couple that I would like to share:
Deuteronomy 31:6 - “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”
What greater promise exists than the assurance that God walks with us and will never leave nor forsake us?
Jeremiah 29:11 - “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
I don’t know what tomorrow looks like. I can’t even be truly certain about what today will hold - none of us can! But I can trust in my Heavenly Father, knowing that He has a plan, He holds my future and my hope is secure in Him! I hope you can say the same!
Blessings,
Fred