This year COVID-19 has brought on a season that has been filled with a mixed bag of emotions. On one hand, some people were gifted with the time of being home with loved ones, and on the other hand some were alone. I have talked to many friends and family members that have used the word “lonely” to describe this year.
Alone– having no one else present; on one’s own or without others’ help or participation or indicating that something is confined to the specified subject or recipient.
Why does the word alone conjure up thoughts of negativity? Why have we been conditioned to think the word alone brings sadness?
If you look up the word alone on Google and click on images, almost all of the picture or illustrations are dark in nature, mystical, eerie, foggy or creepy. We have been trained to think that being alone is not acceptable.
Yet, in the Bible there were times Jesus chose isolation over being with others, and each time there was a major impact. For instance, in Luke 4:1-2, 14-15 after Jesus was baptized, He went into the wilderness to pray. This is the place he was tempted by Satan, thus beginning his public ministry. Second, in Matthew 14:1-13, Jesus learned that John the Baptist had been beheaded and he was grieving. Third, In Luke 5, Jesus went away by himself to pray. Fourth, Jesus went away from his disciples to pray before he was crucified, Luke 22:39-44. During all of these examples, Jesus needed alone time with his Father, and he took advantage of the time instead of going to his disciples for comfort.
Who do you go to when you need comfort? Your best friend? Your spouse? Your child? Whose arms do you seek when you feel alone or distressed? Jesus says” Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (NIV)
COVID has brought a time of uncertainty, fear, and challenges for all of us to face. We would much rather go back to our “normal” lives where we can control our daily comings and goings. But we are promised in Isaiah 41:13, For I am the Lord Your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do Not Fear; I will help you.”
What more can we ask of our loving Father? He holds our right hand and promises to help us!
The uncertainty of COVID-19 still looms, the science and health communities are researching. Yet, we know God is in control and knows all. So, Dear Brothers and Sisters, do not feel alone. You are never alone if you call out to the one true God! He will be your refuge, strength, and friend!
“You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” Jeremiah 29:13 (NIV)
Blessings Sweet Friends,
Stacy
Photo Credit to Pixabay.com
Good One God 