I'm trying to walk more. It's probably just me, but since this lockdown began I find myself snacking more and moving less. So before it really gets out of hand I thought it would try to reel it in. After all, Kohl's is closed and I try not to buy any new clothing without a 30% coupon. But I digress.
As I was walking yesterday…thinking…praying, a phrase came to me. Crisis fatigue. This Covid-19 crisis has already gone on longer than I think many thought it would. I'll be honest. When it all began I was hoping we could be back in our church buildings for Easter. But it now seems apparent that this is going to go on for a while yet. And so far, I think the vast majority of people have responded in extraordinary ways. We have seen wonderful expressions of love, kindness, sacrifice and generosity. As I mentioned on Sunday, for most people this has brought out the very best of who we are.
My concern, and my caution, is that as this goes on we are going to see increasing crisis fatigue. As social distancing, shortages, unemployment and sickness stretch from weeks into months, it can take a toll. If we are not careful, compassion and kindness may slowly give way to frustration, tension and self-interest. For some this crisis fatigue may show itself in the form of impatience or anger. For others it may be displayed in discouragement, depression or self-medication.
But what I want to say to us today is that this does not have to happen. I believe it is possible for us to get through this crisis with our compassion, our kindness and the love of Christ still visibly displayed. But in order for that to happen we have to stay physically and spiritually strong. That means we have to take good care of this temple of God we call the body. Eat well. Exercise. Rest. Take care of ourselves physically.
But even more importantly, we must stay strong spiritually. We will not get through this on our own strength. We need more than ever the power of the Holy Spirit in our lives. I want to encourage us to take this time of isolation to pour ourselves deeper into our walk with Christ. More than ever, start every day in intentional prayer. Spend even more time in the word of God. Worship online and make time for personal worship. Ask God to fill you every day with the power and presence of the Holy Spirit.
I believe if we do these things we can actually come through this crisis physically and spiritually stronger than ever. And that is my hope and desire for us. Please know that I pray for you every day. I miss you and I love you all. But with God's help, we will get through this together.
God Bless,
Pastor Steve
BTW, I also shared a brief video about this yesterday on Facebook. If you would like to see that, please click on this link.