Hello everyone,
So I have lost track of how many weeks we have been social distancing through this pandemic. I know it’s at least a month, but I’m not sure how much more. It really seems like this is the new normal and I’m starting to wonder how weird it will be once we don’t have to be so concerned about spreading this thing anymore (or maybe we’ll always be concerned).
However, I have to say that I’m enjoying my time with my kids. Although I’m still working in my home office, my commute has become drastically more efficient, and I can see my kids during all my breaks and more (likely more). It’s like I’m getting to know them on a whole different level.
And what do you know, I can actually like these kids. They can be kind, considerate, and compassionate with each other, which are traits that I didn’t get to see very often before (especially when they are fighting over something or competing in some video game). This time together might have changed their relationship, but I’d like to think that it was always like that but I’m just seeing it now.
So there is good to be had in this pandemic and social distancing. There is good to be seen in this new pace of life. There is good that might have always been there but now can be recognised because we aren’t as distracted by the the ways our world once was.
I just hope this recognition of ours doesn’t go away once the pandemic does.
Here are the readings for next week:
Acts 2:14a, 36-41
Psalm 116:1-4, 12-19
1 Peter 1:17-23
Luke 24:13-35
Ah, the road to Emmaus. A wonderful story that works on so many levels. But through this time I think what is most apparent is how Cleopas and his unnamed buddy were able to eventually see Jesus in the ordinary, which then was changed into the extraordinary. They saw Jesus in the breaking and sharing of bread, and then they realised that he was always with them. They saw Jesus in the midst of their own disappointment and disillusionment and dismay, and suddenly they were once again filled with hope.
And you can see how that is a powerful word for us in this time of pandemic. However we may be feeling now, Jesus can be seen in the ordinary made extraordinary. Jesus is present in the caring and compassion and kindness of friends and strangers alike. Jesus can be found finding us, wherever we may be, and reminding us of the hope we have in God.
It takes practice, I know. And it isn’t always easy. But Jesus is here with us now, breathing in us God’s Spirit, and granting us the peace that surpasses all understanding. Let us open our hearts and minds to recognise his love, his joy, and his community in and around us even when we are apart.
Have a blessed week, everyone!