In previous periods of crisis, people gathered. 911. Various wars and conflicts. People rallied or protested or both – in groups. The COVID-19 pandemic presents a completely different situation. We are asked to separate and remain apart. We are isolated and told to be “socially distant.”

As we physically separate, we must find other ways to connect – social media, Skype, FaceTime, Zoom, old-fashioned phone calls. Within our homes we can reconnect over sit-down meals at an actual table, worship together, play games, read or watch movies – wait for it – with our families. I know, novel concept, right?

Do not be overcome with evil, but overcome evil with good.

Romans 12:21 NIV

This “crisis” is forcing us to be with our families. A sometimes difficult achievement in modern got-to-run society. So, maybe it’s not all bad. Can’t we feel just as isolated amongst large groups of people?

In the natural world, isolation is dangerous. Wolves seek the weak and isolated as they are vulnerable to attack. Lions will separate prey from a pack or herd to make it easier to kill. It is no coincidence that Satan is compared to both wolves and lions. He delights in isolation, separation, and loneliness. It makes humans vulnerable and weak – easy prey.

So, in the midst of this uncharted territory of isolation-for-a-cause, we must find ways to support each other and encourage each other to remain rooted in the Lord. Our Savior is what holds us together. His love and sacrifice as demonstrated on the Cross is the glue that makes us One Body – One Church. As Jesus did during his short life on earth, we must show kindness, compassion, concern, and love to others. Since we are precluded from hugging and touching (except within the walls of our own homes) we need to find other ways to show that we care.

Let’s take to the phones. Use the Internet and technology that is so often manipulative and time-wasting and turn it into weapons of engagement, conversation, and connection. I challenge each of us to reach out to someone today who may be vulnerable to evil’s attack. Let’s invite them into community. A community walled in by the loving promises of Jesus Christ.

¹⁸ And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.

Ephesians 6:18 NIV

Prayer at this time is crucial. As stated in Ephesians 6 by Paul after the exhortation to put on the full armor of God, we are instructed to pray. And not just here and there, but “on all occasions” and “with all kinds of prayers.”

So let’s practice our social distancing with a measure of connection both through prayer through Jesus directly to the throne of God, the Father, and through technology to reach out to those who may be hurting, vulnerable, and lost. Show the love of Christ to someone today. Be the embodiment of hope, light, and salt we are called through scriptures to be.

Thanks, as always for reading my ramblings. As a special thank you, if you sign up for my quarterly newsletter, I am giving away free downloads of my short story, “Pay It Forward” set on a Washington State Thoroughbred track. Sign up for the newsletter via the pop-up form or on my facebook page, Rebecca Reed Writes in the left column menu. Stay safe and stay connected.