Words of Hope During COVID-19
Linda Tower Pevey, author of We Are the Church… Let’s Act Like It, encourages us to focus on what we can do rather than what we can’t as we practice social distancing.
Today’s Reflection
This journey in grief has been packed with brokenness and blessings. My spiritual director often asks me, “What is God teaching your heart today?” God is teaching my heart that God is more mysterious and elusive than ever, and yet the paradox is that God is more real and nearer than ever.
—Nell E. Noonan, A Widow’s Prayer: Finding God’s Grace in the Days Ahead (Upper Room Books, 2015)
Today’s Question
What is God teaching your heart today? Join the conversation.
Today’s Scripture
The LORD is near to all who call on him,
to all who call on him in truth.
—Psalm 145:18 (NRSV)
Prayer for the Week
God, help me listen to—and learn from—what you are teaching my heart today.
Submit your prayer to The Upper Room.
Something More
Interested in online learning options based on your favorite Upper Room books? Check out The Upper Room eLearning.
Lectionary Readings
(Courtesy of Vanderbilt Divinity Library)
Looking for lectionary-based resources? Learn more about The Upper Room Disciplines.
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There can be great paradox in trying times – as God is asking us to trust Him through challenging circumstances. When I am weak, then I am strong. Stop struggling in the midst of the strong current, rest in the assurance that I am with you. Be STILL and know that I am STILL God.
Yes, He knew of this virus, the ravishing impact it would have. And He is observing, how we – His church, His bride – are reacting. Where does our trust lie? Where is our treasure? May it be grounded in Him, and Him alone.
Met dad for a walk yesterday afternoon. It had been a week, with the poor weather and all…we last saw each other when we had golfed. This week’s weather isn’t looking much better until the end of the week. We made tentative plans to golf next weekend.
I will be going in to school today, as there are things I need to tend to as treasurer of the school. Kind of a mess, as some seniors have not paid their senior dues and many have paid them and will be issued partial refunds. The building is also open this week for teachers to “clear out” their rooms in preparation for summer cleaning. Four weeks of school remain, plans are being made for some type of graduation – where students are slotted in a time frame and will “walk the stage” at our school auditorium. I believe they are allowed to have 6 guests. I don’t believe teachers are allowed to be in attendance.
God is teaching me to be patient. I tried for 2.5 hours to Face Time with my daughter yesterday without success. This morning my computer said she called, but I can’t find any message. Hope all Moms had a wonderful day with the appreciation continuing throughout the year.
Heartfelt posts and prayers here yesterday for many UR family we know and miss as well as new family
In this time of social distancing the UR family comes together at this oasis. Let us remember Jesus’ words, “Peace be with you, My peace I give you. Do not be afraid, lo I am with you always.” Thank You, Lord.
He is teaching me so much currently. How many minor things I took for granted, things that I fear will never return or at least not the way we know them. He is teaching me to rely on Him and His provisions. He has taught me to reach out to others more for connection, support and to support. He is teaching me to take time to thank all who continue to work.
Prayers for Jill as she attempts to reconcile the school’s finances. Prayers for Larry as he continues to grieve.
Prayers for Robert and his daughter, may they be successful today in talking online. Megan and I Zoomed with my mother yesterday. It was so wonderful to see her! I just had to keep reminding her to angle the tablet down so we could see more than the top of her haead. So funny
Prayers for Ally and David, may both growstrong through this ordeal. May David gain strength in his body, lungs and memory. May Ally grow strong in her faith and in her trust in her own abilities.
Prayers for Andrea and her family, may they all be able to stay close no matter the physical distance.
Prayers for Rick and his husband, may Rick continue to learn online as well as in the classroom.
Prayers for Lou and her children, that they enjoyed a wonderful Mother’s Day together.
Megan and I had as good a day as possible now. Unfortunately, h tried to ruin it but we left for awhile. Megan went to my favorite restaurant on Saturday for takeout which I ate yesterday as they are not currently open on Sundays. She got takeout from a different restaurant which is one nice perk of the shutdown.
Prayers and thank you and stay healthy dear UR
What is God teaching my heart today? The reflection for today verbalizes what God is teaching me better than I can. Part of the elusivity (is that a word?) is the waiting. As God showed me at the first of 2020, that would be my word for the year, God has confirmed over and over. While God has answered many prayers (God always answers prayer), I’m still waiting for answers on a lot of things. Last year, my word was Trust. Still applies, Some days I do better with waiting and trusting than I do other days. I’m thankful for the nearness of God and the mystery. Here is a funny from a friend: If 2020 were a soft drink, it would be a Tab. If you know anything about Tab, it was one of the first diet sodas. It was terrible. I am believing that 2020 will be a glass of perfectly sweet iced tea with fresh lemon.
David and I have a big praise: God has provided some of the adaptive equipment he will require after he comes home Thursday. Medicare will pay for a wheelchair and bedside potty chair. He will also need a walker and bath bench. A friend’s step-father has an almost new walker and bath bench, which he is graciously giving us. Praise the Lord. Another friend and her husband are using their stimulus check to bless others and asked if we would make a wish list on Amazon so they give us some things which bring us joy. The kindness of our family and friends as been such a blessing.
Jill, I pray you can sort through all your treasury issue and get them straight. Glad you and your dad could spend some time together. Robert, thank you for the scripture and it’s reminder of where our true peace comes from. I pray the other “regulars” are having a good day. Grace and Peace to all!
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