“ I saw water flowing from the temple and all who were touched by it were saved.”

After reading and hearing about the “stay in place” directive many emotions ran through my heart and mind. First there was anger, then a sense of disbelief, and finally emptiness and longing.

This anger-manifested itself from the strong words in the directive from the state and the diocese, churches and adoration chapels MUST be closed and locked. NO live stations and gatherings anywhere on the church or school property. Weddings and baptisms Must be postponed, as well as funerals and wakes. 

Our way of life is slowly fracturing; we creatures who are created to serve and be present for each other are called to live in solitude and six feet apart from each other.

The water from the temple has turned into a trickle.

After much reading and listening to the many analysts and scientists concerning our situation, the uneasy feeling of how unprepared as a country, and how fragile a once thriving economy could all of a sudden, in less than 45 days come crashing down to a stop leaving many without a way to provide for themselves and families gives a stronger meaning to word sacrifice.

  How vulnerable we are in not having enough hospital space to care for the ill, not enough equipment to treat the ill, not enough protective equipment to protect those who care of the ill, begs the question to be asked, how did this happen to a society that appeared to be so comfortable with itself?

 Maybe the greed of excess capitalism, and the selfishness of humankind have finally collided. 

During this time we all feel emptiness in our lives. Away from friends, family, coworkers, our faith community, the longing to be with each other, to receive Christ in the Eucharist, to dip our hand in the font of living water. How will this period of time change what we used to do as a society to what we will have to do as a society. 

By praying and reading scripture, we all have a lot time now, let us pray for those who are on the front line caring for all the sick. Let us pray that enough resources become available to those who have little or no way to support their families. Let us pray for a vaccine to be developed and let us pray for the time that we can all be once again in communion with each other again.

Psalm 46:2-3, 8-9

“God is our refuge and our strength,

an ever-present help in distress.

Therefore we fear not, though the earth be shaken and the mountains plunge into the depths of the sea.

The Lord of hosts is with us;

Our stronghold is the God of Jacob.

Come! Behold the deeds of the Lord,

The astounding things he has wrought on earth.

 

Peace and comfort,

Deacon Jerry