Pause

Dear Friends,

I hope this finds you well. Last Autumn I wrote about finding contentment in the season we’re in. This year you and I find much of our lives on ‘pause’. This season of isolation for many brings with it disappointment, longings and sadness. We need to make friends with uncertainty, while knowing we be reunited again. It’s a strange no-man’s-land. We’ve never walked this way before. Each persons’ experience of this time is both unique and valid. For some it’s a lonely experience with symptoms of mental illness becoming more severe. Many people are vulnerable, sick or experiencing financial loss. The hardships and heartaches are real.

Silver Lining

At the same time it’s a hotchpotch of scenarios. A silver lining has meant rest and family time for those privileged in this way. I love the story a father who previously worked 70 hours a week in forestry, suddenly became time rich; had discovered family life in a new way. This family’s joy reminds me of the lost and found stories that Jesus told. As I write our cat sits on my lap for the second time this morning -she’s hoping this will be the ‘new normal’. The world is changing and it won’t be all bad. Perhaps the need to be resourceful will bring us closer together with those who are knowledgeable – especially the elderly. I’m planning a veggie garden and look forward to receiving advice from seasoned gardeners. I recently watched Phil Tait speaking about how God is desiring a ‘new normal’ for his church. Watch this space as we see God’s love and creativity in the Church. God is the Master who works all things together for good for those love Him.

My Self-care

In my last post I shared how anxiety is a weak point for me, as I know it is for many people. At the beginning of lock-down I was anxious, constantly checking the news on my phone and breathing less deeply. Calming a sensitive mind in a media storm is an important task. In my irritable state I believed sub-consciously that reading the news would give me some certainty or control over the situation. After I quit following the news for a week, I got a better grip on sleep. Bike riding and playing with the kids in the park was refreshing. I needed to do the usual self-care tasks; I took my medication as needed, checked in with my G.P, connected with friends and family. It all helped. In this time we have been keeping connected, through services and friendships with our church Grace Vineyard. I appreciate different podcasts and online messages that address this crazy time we’re in. I would highly recommend watching our pastors Lissie and David MacGregor giving a message on mental health in this time (26.04). I am aware of how privileged we are to have the resources and support we do.

New Strength

Most days I’ve been learning some scriptures by heart, slowly, just one verse at a time. This has been strengthening me considerably. I’ve surprised myself at what I can recall when I put my mind to some exercise. It’s like I’m slow cooking amazing soul food. I think it’s also like taking a dog for a daily walk. This mind of mine needs exercising. My husband is working full time from home. School home learning has kicked off, presenting new challenges and opportunities – more baking and wearing clothes that stretch! I admit I’ve had scratchy moments while trying to get my head around online schooling. I know I’m not alone! I’ve decided to lower some expectations on myself.

Survival

For a large number of people this time isn’t about thriving, rather survival. I wish we could all hug a friend and have the true therapy of a cup of tea together. A coffee over Zoom or Skype is significant. A chat to a neighbour over the fence will be the smell of an oily rag our soul desperately needs. A little goes a long way. If you are struggling – lower your expectations on yourself and maybe others. Don’t think ‘personal growth’ when you can hardly see the way through today. Jesus gave us permission to trust in God and stay in today. (Matthew 6:25-34). Jesus said his burden is light. This is the kindness of God.

I’ve shared this scripture before and will do again because it is awesome:

The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases,
    his mercies never come to an end;
they are new every morning;
    great is your faithfulness.
“The Lord is my portion,” says my soul,
    “therefore I will hope in him.”

Lamentations 3:21-23 NRSV

Jeremiah an Old Testament prophet wrote these words in harrowing times. Amidst his anguish he deliberately steers his attention to what defines God- love. God is love (1 John 4:16). I think the prophet showcases God’s steadfast love with the dawn, because it is the most famous of God’s qualities. His love is an endless fountain, the Sun that rolls out continuous mercies. This love is a heart that never stops beating for his child. When I am feeling anxious or fearful, my chief aim is to calm myself and tune into God’s heart for me. It can be hard, very hard, but His perfect love repels fear (1 John 4:18).

There is blessing to be found when we notice what God has done for us and thank Him. Keep looking for the evidence of his compassions in your life. A mercy may look like the existence of educational TV, or a friend who will be home when you phone. Just make sure you phone. I don’t know your situation or bubble, but I pray you will seek out others and God for support. Your friends and whānau need you – just as you are.

Where can you see God’s mercies helping you get through this time?

Who is someone you could call or text to talk to today?

Feel free to leave a comment about what is helping you get through this time. It would be nice to hear how you’re doing.

Ngā mihi,

Bronnie