Covid-19 - Grief, Anxiety & Prayer

I’ve been thinking about my feelings and emotions quite a lot in the midst of the Covid-19 crisis. It’s something I always try to be mindful of but this pandemic has really heightened the daily process of trying to pinpoint how I feel. Naming my emotions doesn’t always come naturally to me, however grief and anxiety about the future were two things that came to mind, and I’m pretty sure these feelings aren’t unique to me.

Grief is a strong word, but in this time we have all lost much, be it big or small. Not just the obvious loss of life, but I’ve been particularly shaken by the impact this has had on jobs, businesses and people’s livelihoods. I’m also grieving the loss of community; friends who we spend time with regularly, church, family gatherings, coffee dates and people round for dinner in the evenings. I’m grieving the loss of ‘normal’ life and the way it used to look for us.

And then there’s anxiety - an emotion that sadly I’m pretty familiar with and have battled with before - that physical feeling of apprehension about what is to come. When will it end? How many will die? How many will lose their jobs? When will I be able to go to a shop without worrying what I’m touching, or go for a walk in the park without keeping 2 metres away from the person coming the other way? I think it’s the unknown in so many of these things that makes the fear really amplified; it allows the imagination to run wild.

As I pondered these things I felt somewhat guilty for feeling them. Doesn’t God have the answers to all these things? Should I even be feeling this? I was almost immediately reminded of two instances in Jesus’ life where he experienced these similar emotions.

The first was Jesus’ expression of grief after Lazarus died in John 11:35 where ‘Jesus wept.’ He shares in the grief of Lazarus’ friends and family even though he knows that moments later he will raise Lazarus from the dead. He doesn’t deny the emotion of that moment in spite of this. It is ok that we grieve, and feel sad about what we have lost, even though we trust and hope in what God can do next.

The second instance was Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane where he expresses anguish in anticipation of going to the cross, asking God if there is any other way (Luke 22:39-46). He prays in such earnest that he sweats blood. It is ok that we look ahead in anticipation of the next weeks and months and feel anguish and uncertainty. 

In both these situations Jesus expresses strong emotions. But he also follows each with the same response. He goes to the Father in prayer. The first time asking for a miracle for the situation they were in; the second time asking for God’s strength and for his will to be done, returning in prayer several times until he receives what he needs from God. It is ok that we feel emotion but that doesn’t take away from the fact that we should go to God in prayer. And going to God in prayer also doesn’t mean that these emotions will simply vanish immediately. As someone who sees much of life in black and white holding these things in tension isn’t easy for me. I tend to think that I should either feel emotion or pray. I'm learning, as Jesus did, to express what I’m feeling to God in prayer, knowing I can return to him again and again, as many times as I need.

As a Redeemer church family we're going to be ‘meeting’ virtually to pray every Wednesday evening which will serve as a great opportunity for us together to bring everything we’re going through and feeling in this season to God; hope to see you there!

Sarah Montgomery-Taylor

'Take this opportunity to read more......'

As you will no doubt be aware, the recent covid-19 outbreak has changed everyone’s lives to a greater and a lesser extent. As a church we know that many members of our family will be self-isolating, working from home, or practicing social distancing over the coming weeks. We are hoping that through a series of blogs we can encourage you, and others who might be reading these blogs, to fix your eyes on Jesus, and respond to the crisis in a way which honours his will for our lives.

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One of my new year’s resolutions this year was to read more, and given that I am currently consigned to my house for the near future, I am hoping not to turn to the nearest screen and see how much of Netflix’s back catalogue I can get through, but instead to actually act on my resolution!

This has not been as easy as I thought, as there is still lots going on in my life, and many things I need to be doing to make sure church still happens (albeit online) on a Sunday morning! But one thing that’s helpful is the many deals which have subsequently appeared on book selling websites! So, if you, like me are using this time to try and read more, then detailed below is many ways in which you can pick up your next page turner for free (or at least at a discount).

First up, Audible, who recently released the following statement on their website:

For as long as schools are closed, we're open. Starting today, kids everywhere can instantly stream an incredible collection of stories, including titles across six different languages, that will help them continue dreaming, learning, and just being kids.
All stories are free to stream on your desktop, laptop, phone or tablet.
Explore the collection, select a title and start listening.
It's that easy.

Their titles are varied depending on age, but include stories from Beatrix Potter, A.A. Milne, and Rudyard Kipling, as well as C.S. Lewis’ ‘The Screwtape Letters’, and classics like Frankenstein, Jane Eyre and Romeo and Juliet.

There are also a number of titles available for $4.99 on LifeWay, such as ‘Steadfast Love: The Response of God to the cries of our Heart’ by Lauren Chandler, and ‘Running From Mercy: Jonah and the Surprising Story of God’s Unstoppable Grace’. LifeWay is also offering their Gospel Project curriculum for free during this time, which is the resource we use for our kids work on a Sunday morning.

Crossway is also offering the basic subscription plan on ESV.org for free until the 31st of May 2020. With the plan you can access 9 different study bibles, the Greek New Testament, and the ‘Knowing the Bible study series’ which covers every book in the bible across 45 volumes.

Most books at The Good Book Company are also discounted up to 40% off, books such as ‘Where Is God in a Coronavirus World’ by John Lennox, and ‘The Friend Who Forgives: A True Story about How Peter Failed and Jesus Forgave’ by Dan DeWitt.

Finally, Moody (A Christian book publisher) is also offering several of it’s titles at 50% off, including The Pursuit of God by A.W. Tozer. While everything on the site is at least 40% off until the end of March.

So, if you’re looking to get into reading during your time of self-isolation, or if you have always been a lover of books, there’s lots out there for you!

A Bruised Reed Walking

As you will no doubt be aware, the recent covid-19 outbreak has changed everyone’s lives to a greater and a lesser extent. As a church we know that many members of our family will be self-isolating, working from home, or practicing social distancing over the coming weeks. We are hoping that through a series of blogs we can encourage you, and others who might be reading these blogs, to fix your eyes on Jesus, and respond to the crisis in a way which honours his will for our lives.

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Father, I need a break -
I step outside to clear my head.
the cold wind grips me, and I shiver
quickening my step, I feel it push back
it is a spring evening, normally streets are busy, but there is not a car in sight
few busses pass by, fewer passengers inside
people rush in and out of a 7/11 shop
I hear arguing in houses and on streets
the atmosphere is tense
our neighbourhood still has empty newbuilds
but it's in the middle of two estates,
I love this part of town, its people, its flavours, normally teaming with life
I walk past an elderly lady, carefully measuring her steps
a man hurries past, face covered deep under a hoodie
together we fight an invisible enemy
we help each other by keeping a distance

Lord, how is life going to continue?
Rumours spreading on social media
Fear creeping into feeds
Fact and fiction mingling, people keep sharing
Worries fill my mind

Then I turn a corner, what I see takes my breath away
out of nothing, a beautiful evening sky appears
orange, pink and purple light on fluffy clouds
it is marvellous, "I made heaven and earth" a voice pops into my consciousness
Thank you, God

I cross the road and notice sounds are softer near the canal
Instead of barking dogs and arguments, birds sing their eve songs
Cherry blossoms, strangely bright in this light
"Peace, I give you" the still little voice continues
I breathe in deeply, the wind tastes fresh
Warmth is spreading through my body as my muscles move
A tree boasts tender shoots on every branch
"I promise, there will be better days"
As nature holds its breath during winter, we too hold our breath
This spring seems to be delaying its relief
But we are invited to breathe freely, keep a clear head.
"Am I not in charge?" God's voice asks quietly
Crises come and go, people seem to forget
"Nothing new under the sun"
"Be courageous and strong. Do not be afraid"

These are exceptional times, but people tend to be the same
The ones who take more than they need, have always done so
Affluence and greed, another more subtle pandemic
Others serve their communities, and have always done so,

A less appreciated contagion
On a daily televised government status update, the Chancellor said, "We will remember how we took care of each other"
Coronavirus is a chance
What is my priority, my personal comfort or the public good?
"What you have done to the least of these, you did to me"
Jesus cares about our behaviour towards those in need, 
he identifies with them, he IS them.

As the sky loses its evening spectacle glow,
I head back home with a clearer vision for our community.
Covid 19 or not, “A bruised reed he will not break,
and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out.
In faithfulness he will bring forth justice” 
Isaiah 42:3

A Lent of Greater Faith

As you will no doubt be aware, the recent covid-19 outbreak has changed everyone’s lives to a greater and a lesser extent. As a church we know that many members of our family will be self-isolating, working from home, or practicing social distancing over the coming weeks. We are hoping that through a series of blogs we can encourage you, and others who might be reading these blogs, to fix your eyes on Jesus, and respond to the crisis in a way which honours his will for our lives.

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I didn’t plan to write this blog.

I began writing a piece for Lent about us not just focussing on what we are giving up, but also asking ourselves what we are taking on this Lent - what challenges, changes, crosses and contributions we’ll be taking on to serve our households, church family, community and God.

But then COVID-19 happened.  

And as I wrote this new blog, I think God brought me back to the same place. 

Our prayer and God’s protection

During such testing times as these, I’ve found it helpful to listen to on-line bible studies, encouraging us to pray with confidence, exercising our faith and trusting God like never before.  We don’t know what the future holds for us, but we know a God who does.  

The Psalms provide powerful words of faith as well as heart-felt cries to God.  In the face of current public health crisis Psalm 91 is perfect, particularly because it calls upon the Lord for protection over pestilence and I highly recommend that we take those promises and incorporate them into our prayers for ourselves, family, friends & neighbours.

We are not immune, it’s true, but God makes all things possible. If Christ can raise the dead, if the Apostles can cast out demons, if my faith can move mountains, then our God through the Holy Spirit, in the Name of Jesus, can protect us.

Fear or faith 

Jesus was very clear: “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you” (Matthew 7:7).  So, now, as never before, ask, seek, knock – be persistent in prayer with faith in God, who stands with us.  

Now, spiritual faith can work with practical common sense, so yes, we take precautions, we are careful to not socialise, we wash our hands, we follow government and health guidelines, but we do it with faith not fear – that’s the difference! “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7).

A Lent of greater faith

So how does this relate to what we give up for Lent and what we take on for Lent? Well, I say that we let go of fear and take on even greater faith. I advise prayer over panic, declaring life over accepting death. Choose to live in truth rather than live overwhelmed by the daily news. 

People may well continue to fall ill – fact.  The truth is that God is with us in times of trouble, He delivers us and honours us. With long life He will satisfy us and show us His salvation (Psalm 91).  

Daily life has been thrown off course – fact. The truth is that we have life from someone who is life (John 11:25).

It is evident in the Bible that our God is incredibly intentional; everything serves a purpose, there is a plan and His timing is unique, critical and perfect, whether we understand it or not. He is faithful! So let us be too.  Let us sing Hosanna on Palm Sunday, sing thanks to Christ on Good Friday and raise the roof with the Holy Spirit come Easter Sunday - without fear, but with courage, love and truth.  

The cross came before the crown and I hope that we all feel encouraged at this time, and at all times, because though there may be weeping in the night, rejoicing comes in the morning (Psalm 30) and God will make our cause shine like the noon day sun (Psalm 37) – God’s words, not mine.

Lent’s soundtrack

If this blog had a soundtrack, it would feature:

• Yes & Amen - Housefires

• Way maker - Sinach

• Take a moment – United Pursuit

Now, let’s end with some hashtags shall we… it’s a blog after-all

#FaithOverFear 

#PrayerNotPanic 

#YesAndAmen

Peace be with you & God bless you,

Pamela 

Curse or Blessing?

As you will no doubt be aware, the recent covid-19 outbreak has changed everyone’s lives to a greater and a lesser extent. As a church we know that many members of our family will be self-isolating, working from home, or practicing social distancing over the coming weeks. We are hoping that through a series of blogs we can encourage you, and others who might be reading these blogs, to fix your eyes on Jesus, and respond to the crisis in a way which honours his will for our lives.

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I am self isolating. I like to believe that I don’t look (or act) anywhere near my age! But the fact is that I am 71 and I am suddenly in the ‘vulnerable’ group.  Even worse, I have a cough.  To be honest, I have had coughing bouts on and off for years now, but at this time a persistent cough is the worst thing you can have!

Being a sociable person, I am used to meeting people all the time, attending church meetings, praying for people at home etc.  Now I suddenly cannot do that anymore.  So I have two options –  I can stay at home and sulk and complain. Or I can decide to ignore the Government’s strong advice and go about my business as usual, possibly get infected and take up precious hospital beds which are needed by others.

As a Christian I need to ask myself – what would Jesus do?  

Well, first of all, Jesus loved people.

He cared for the marginalised, the poor, the widow and the sick!  He considered their wellbeing.  The bible tells us that true religion is caring for the widows and orphans (James 1:27). So am I caring for these if I put myself and them at risk?  The answer must be ‘no!’ 

So neither of the options above seem like a good option, well fortunately I believe that there is a third way, which I believe is the most pleasing to Jesus.

The Bible says that every day is a gift from God!  Let’s treat it as such, wherever we are – at work or at home.  It doesn’t matter, whatever we do, we do it as to the Lord, knowing that from Him we shall receive a rich reward for our labour. 

There are actually many advantages to being at home, thanks to modern technology.  There is the opportunity to have prayer and chats face to face on Whatsapp, Skype, Zoom or whatever!  Continue to regularly ‘meet’ with your groups.  Today I had an incredible time on Whatsapp with a bible study group member – we read the Bible together, worshipped and prayed together!  The presence of the Lord was right there!  We both felt really uplifted and are already looking forward to next week, when I hope to get the Skype up and running for the other three members of the group so that we can all join in and be blessed.

God is not bound by walls, or distance!  If we invite the Holy Spirit to come into our situation, He will move! No matter where or how!

And now I am also looking forward to finally reading through all those books that have been sitting on my shelves for years! looking through and sorting out my photos and my files, chatting to extended family on the phone, and ringing all those friends I haven’t got round to speaking to for years, bringing them a word of hope and encouragement. Writing that short story I have been hoping to do for years, painting my old dining room chairs, possibly even sewing some new covers for my cushions… 

And, of course… spending more time with the Lord Jesus, without having to rush off somewhere, and reading the Bible more slowly!

It’s certainly not going to be boring. Those of us in isolation can be excited about the opportunity God is giving us to be more available to Him than ever before!

I’m looking forward to it!  What about you? 

The Great Leveller

As you will no doubt be aware, the recent covid-19 outbreak has changed everyone’s lives to a greater and a lesser extent. As a church we know that many members of our family will be self-isolating, working from home, or practicing social distancing over the coming weeks. We are hoping that through a series of blogs we can encourage you, and others who might be reading these blogs, to fix your eyes on Jesus, and respond to the crisis in a way which honours his will for our lives.

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Lord Hennessy, a historian, referred to the Corona Virus as a great leveller in that the virus is no respecter of social status, race, gender, ability, wealth, etc.

Irrespective of who you are, the virus and the associated social shutdown impacts us all.

He also speculated about how PhD students of the future will regard our society and how we responded to the challenges posed by the virus.  

So let’s give them something positive to talk about.

I’ve seen blogs with suggestions as to how we can make working from home happier and healthier – all suggestions have been welcome.   

But how can we help each other?

My daughter saw a woman giving bottles of hand sanitiser to fellow commuters and a lady holding a sign giving her phone number asking people to contact her if they need support.  I’m not advocating that last one, but it set me wondering, what can we do for work colleagues and for neighbours who are coping with the same pressures right now.

• We can keep in touch with those we usually work along side – not just team conference calls, but on a one to one basis too.

• We can share coping tips – both with work colleagues and neighbours.

• Try turning the usual half-felt enquiry (“How you doing, alright?”) into a more searching question – “How you doing today?” – and wait for a real answer.  If in doubt, ask twice. 

• Support local businesses by shopping in smaller independent shops – they seem to better stocked that the supermarkets in any case.

• Support your local Food bank – details here.

And ring your mum – she worries about you. 

One day we’ll all be featured in a PhD dissertation (probably several); I’d like to think we come out looking good.