Congratulations on making it to the last week of the “Quarantined: Using a Season of Solitude to Connect with God.” We began this journey together five weeks ago, not knowing what the state of the world would be when we reached the final week. Would things be back to normal? Would the virus be under control? Would we feel safe venturing out and be able to worship together face to face?
We now know the answer to all these questions is no. Things are no back to normal. In fact, they may never be normal again. So we prepare for a new normal. The virus is not yet under control, although the scientists and medical professionals are working at record speed to create and release a vaccine. Officials continue to tell us to limit our gathers to no more than ten people, wear masks when in public, and keep washing those hands.
If there is one word that we could use to describe where we sit today and as we look out into the future, it is unknown. Unknown when these restrictions ease. Unknown when we will feel comfortable gathering again. Unknown when this new normal feels normal.
Anytime we are faced with the unknown, we can be gripped with fear and anxiety. But for those who follow Jesus, we do not have to fear. Yes, we have the same concerns as everyone else. We are not immune to the nightly newscasts and reports of the state of our world.
But we have a secret weapon. Something, or better yet Someone, who has been given to us to lead us and guide us, comfort us and convict us in these moments of uncertainty and unknowing.
The Holy Spirit. A part of everyone who calls Jesus Lord. Put into our lives to seal us in Christ (Ephesians 1:13), teach us all Jesus has taught (John 14:26), and help us in our weakness and intercede for us (Romans 8:26). He is with us to help us (John 14:15), empower us (Acts 1:8), and give us freedom (2 Corinthians 3:17)
The Apostle Paul wrote to his protege Timothy, “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline.” (2 Timothy 1:7) In these uncertain times, we do not have to be afraid. Neither do we have to stick our hands in the sand or plaster on a fake smile telling everyone, “It will be ok.”
We have the Holy Spirit of God living within us, empowering us with gifts for such a time as this to be helpful, and encouraging, and truthful. We have the gifts of the Spirit that make us joyful, peaceful, kind, gentle and loving (Galatians 5:22-23)
Even in the uncertainty and unknown, lean into and allow your life to be immersed in and empowered by the Spirit of God. And in doing so, you are showing the evidence of the realness of the One True God, and you might just experience something of God you’ve never experienced before.
Today’s Journaling Reflections
- Which of the following best describes the work of the Spirit in your life? A)The Spirit has not been a major part of my spiritual life. B) I am beginning to see signs of the Spirit’s presence in my life. C)The Spirit is an integral part of my spiritual life.
- Why did you choose this answer?
- What could be limiting the empowering of the Spirit in your life?
- What could you do today to become more open to the filling of the Spirit in your life?
- Write a prayer based on the reading and Scriptures reflected on today.
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