In years past, we'd hear people
caution us, “Don’t be so Heavenly minded…”
I'd like to suggest that we look at this sentence in another way, such
as "Don't be so earthly minded, that you aren't so Heavenly good."
During this time of scary isolation,
I'm suggesting that we think of our relationship to God.
Governmental rules that we may not like have been put in place for our
good. On the whole, Americans are a very compassionate people. We don't
want anyone to deal with death, much less a horrible one.
The United States is a very blessed
Nation. We, Americans, can usually go wherever we want, do whatever we
want, and live wherever we want. Right now, we are constrained in a type
of medical warfare with COVID-19. The
reason for containment is to stop the spread of this strange respiratory
virus. Many must work from home, attend school from home, depend on
others for food and other necessities, or order these items from home.
Stay-at-home is all we hear. Home, home, home. That's all we hear from
the TV. Frankly, I'm an active person and tired of hearing it. But,
for the good of others, I adhere to the Government's rules.
Now, God has rules for our own good
... the Ten Commandments. Some obey them while others run from them. They
are intended to help us live good lives. Even unbelievers don't really
mind them because following these commandments provides a good living environment.
People generally just go about their business not even thinking of these
rules. They can break most of these rules, that is, the ones that don't
fall under any governmental law, without a thought. But when trouble
comes, most people start to look for solutions. People get upset and
don't know where to turn. Many people
think of God.
Where is God, you might ask?
He is everywhere, but He's not pushy. He resides in the hearts of
many. With people who don't believe, He waits in the wings to be invited
into our lives. People pray for solutions … some get answers, some
don't. Those who get answers, sometimes say thanks, and get on with their
lives. Some who don't, may curse God, get mad or bitter, and then, get on
with their lives.
During this period of separation
from others is a perfect time to think about God. Who is He; what
relevance does He have to us and our lives? If you weren't raised in a
religious household, the Bible is a good way to start. If you were taught
about God when you were very young, you have a foundation. You might have
a relationship with God through Jesus. That's wonderful. It's recorded in
the Bible that Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life.
No one comes to the Father except through Me." (John14:6) Hopefully,
you've kept that friendship alive. If not, this week, Holy Week, is an
opportunity to think and pray about it. There's no reason to worry, just
talk to God as you would share with a friend. The Bible, in Isaiah 53:6,
tells us that "All of us, like sheep, have strayed away. We've left
God's paths to follow our own..." God just waits for us to turn to Him.
This Holy Week, we are invited to
think of Jesus and how he paid the price for every action that we know in our
heart of hearts to have been wrong, selfish or hurtful. After Jesus died,
three days later, He rose from the dead. When it was time for Jesus to return
to Heaven, He said He would send the Holy Spirit to help us stay close to God
(John 14:15-31). The Holy Spirit will assist you to reflect. Just have a
conversation with Him. And, remember that "we're all in the same boat, so
to speak." I'm a sinner saved by the grace and mercy of a dear and
gracious Friend, God.
Have a Blessed Easter.
Thanks for taking the time to check out my blog.
The Book of Micah by Catherine Hall (Amazon.com)
Perhaps by Catherine Hall (Amazon.com)
