3/30/2020

Dear family,

                You are not alone.  This devotional series by Pastor Marcus has helped me.  I feel crazy.  Perceived as naughty for leaving my house is sad.  The homeless are telling me to, “Have a nice day.”  Seriously, three separate people smiled and said something nice to me at the park this week.  Maybe we all look homeless right now.  I almost feel like signing up to work in daycare because that’s where the hugs are.  I am not taking social distancing well.

                Seth, on the other hand, said, “I have been practicing for this my whole life.”  He is enjoying this.  Seth did go out twice this week; once to pet the cat, the second time he went to help online Sunday service.  I am glad Seth is OK.  Contentment is a beautiful thing.

                Adriel is glad to be an essential service.  She goes to work yet faces distancing and restriction.  I am glad she is willing to chat after work. 

                Bobby is bending over backward to meet with youth online.  Youth group was done through zoom this week.  It was chaotic but we read God’s word and understood.  Bobby is playing several online games.  One was a board game. 

                All of us have been cooking.  Friday we had dinner together and that was nice.  Being together has not felt too close.  We all have different spots and don’t get in each other’s way.  Sometimes I’ll cuddle up to Bobby, that is nice.  Bobby and I took a walk that included social distancing.  It was not fun but I did get a cute picture of Bobby.

                I feel like life is on hold.  We have stopped breathing – we are waiting – we want it to be over and are dreading that social isolation might last longer.  Even if laws change will people go back to normal?  Will we ever hug acquaintances again?  Will people be offended by “Where’s Waldo” situations?  How dare everyone be outside!

                Will trips be canceled?  Will camp happen this year?  Will seniors graduate?  Will some people die of boredom?  Or depression?  Or domestic abuse? 

                Will God sweep in and save the day?  Will people fall on their knees and pray?  Will there be a revival?  Will stories come out – stories about this being the best thing that ever happened?  Will we be stronger after this?  Will we be purposefully thankful?  Will we be glad to go outside?

                Lord, please rescue us.  Please bring your healing power to our world.  Look upon us with favor, hear our cry for help and heal our land.  Lord, you are all-powerful.  We need you. 

Much love,

Cristy

PS in hard times the blessing is that we can cry out to our lord.

ALSO, Adriel's Birthday is on Friday.  I would love for people to sing to her at noon 4/3/2020 through zoom.  If anyone is available and willing please e-mail or text me your contact information.  cvankleek@yahoo.com 971-239-8166.  Thank you!!!