Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to listen to much of the sermon this past Sunday. For some reason, every kid - including my kids - knew this week had been different and therefore proceeded to run away, make extra noise, walk around the church like they owned the place (those were my kids), etc. There was also a lot of extra space to roam which probably just screamed freedom to their curious hearts and minds. 

And now we are stuck inside. What freedom is that? 

I think with the chaos circling around us, we all have different emotions in regards to this “social distancing”. Some seem to relish in the fact that they can watch more movies, read more books, and just relax. Some seem to be not really bothered by it, having never really liked being in groups of 10+ anyways. Some seem to already be over it by day 2. 

Wherever your feelings may lie, I think this social distancing has definitely opened our eyes to see how we truly are doing during this time. No one is asking us how we are doing. The things that got us through in life - work, friends, health, space from kids, whatever - are no longer for certain or stable right now. I think as Christians, we are left with a lot of questions and feelings that probably can only be expressed to God. 

As we read in Habakkuk, Habakkuk expressed his feelings to God. He complained to Him. He asked a ton of questions.  God answered Habakkuk and then Habakkuk complained again. He questioned again and God answered again. Eventually, Habakkuk rejoices in God (3:17-9), but that took time and vulnerability. It did not happen overnight. He had to wrestle with his feelings about himself, the world, and its Creator. 

Although, I do not know how or when the Lord will answer, I do believe that during this time, the best thing to do is to be HONEST with Him. If you are anxious, tell Him. If you are happy, tell Him. If you are angry, tell Him. If you are angry with Him, tell Him. God can handle it. 

I listened to a podcast recently that mentioned this very point. How we handle these seasons of trial and tribulation do not define us. God is always looking forward for us, allowing these struggles to shape us, but not be the end of who we are.

So how are you doing? 

 ~Chelsea Warren