Happy Easter Sunday. Or as some of us may prefer to call it, Resurrection Day. For many of us our Sunday will be like that first Sunday when the disciples were in isolation, sheltered from the world and fearing for their lives. We may not be fearing for our lives, but we can still relate to their situation. Thankfully we are blessed with some amazing technology these days that allows us to connect and still celebrate this Easter message. It may be through Facebook Live, Zoom, FaceTime, and various other outlets. There is access for almost all of us worldwide to receive a message of some kind.
We are dealing with a pandemic due to an outbreak of a virus. This virus has changed everyone's life in some way. For those of that are "essential", our work hours might be shortened or extended, our health and safety are more at risk, our patience grows thinner and thinner as you can imagine. You might know that not everyone follows the guidelines set in place and it causes you to do more than just roll your eyes or shake your head in disbelief. For the "very essential" ones, they are realizing their place in the world more than ever. They are earning the love and respect of others that has long been overdue. I have seen pictures of prayer vigils, posters of support, folks everywhere making masks, and more countless gestures of love and support than one has ever witnessed in such a short amount of time since 9/11.
For many though this virus has been a virus of change. This virus has caused havoc and heartache on many families in this world. Many have fought and fought to survive through the effects this virus has on the body. Many have lost lives due to this virus. Loved ones, family members, friends, acquaintances, neighbors and many others left to grieve without a chance to formally say goodbye, without a chance to properly say their respects. Due to this virus, memorials have to come through the form of our technology. Kind words, respects and reflections through Facebook, Instagram Nextdoor, obituary sites, etc.
This virus has also effected those that have been isolated or in "self-quarantine" (one of our favorite phrases of 2020). This virus has caused loneliness, fear, heartache, longing, anxiety and depression to name a few. It is a virus of epic proportions to say the least. A very talented virus that may cause God's archenemy the Devil to smile and laugh for days on end. This the part where Easter Sunday (Resurrection Day) takes on a greater meaning than every before. This is the day where we keep rising, keep reaching, and remember all of those around us.
I think Jesus might be looking down and saying "did it really take all of this for us to practice my commandment of Love Thy Neighbor"? . Sure this is still corporate greed, and selfishness being practiced daily in all parts of the world, and in many situations. However, the word unity has taken on a whole new meaning, and our communities will keep growing stronger and stronger by the day. No matter what this virus does, we have the ability to lift our human spirits, to show kindness in ways that they we never thought were possible, to reach out and love neighbors that we may not even know. Rise up and resurrect something inside of you, no matter how hard your situation is, someone is suffering more than you.That is a guarantee. A man suffered and died on a cross, and today we celebrate that he is risen. Rise with him. Much love to all out there.
P.S. Most importantly, love thy neighbor and still keep your distance on the sidewalk, at the store, at work, and other places as well.
P.S. Most importantly, love thy neighbor and still keep your distance on the sidewalk, at the store, at work, and other places as well.
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