Rejoice in the Lord always.
Look around and see God’s goodness: the sun shining, the color of the sky, the way the clouds float overhead, a phone call from a friend, the smile of a child, a meal dropped off on the porch, teachers showing up over and over to teach, doctors and nurses and health care workers going above and beyond.
I will say it again: Rejoice!
Take a moment to give thanks and think about that which is good. Shift your mind from worry to joy. From anxiety to God’s provision in the here and now. Look for the ordinary miracles and the ordinary people of God doing extraordinary acts.
Let your gentleness be evident to all.
Especially for yourself. Give yourself grace over and over again. Offer forgiveness. Relinquish control and give your fear and worries to God.
The Lord is near.
We were never meant to do life alone, remember, that God is with you. In the stillness, listen for God’s voice. In the chaos of the everyday, take note of God’s presence. In the rushing and doing, listen for the Spirit’s nudge to slow down and know that God is God.
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
Whether it’s with words, tears, cries, or shouts give your prayers to God. God longs to carry you and give your comfort.
And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:4-7)
During these days of uncertainty, help us to be certain of you. Amen and amen.
Kimberly Knowle-Zeller is an ordained ELCA pastor, mother of two, and spouse of an ELCA pastor. She lives with her family in Cole Camp, MO. You can read more at her website, follow her work on Facebook, or sign up for her monthly newsletter.