Salt and Light

Across the US, panic has been unfolding.  The Holy Spirit has been placing this on my heart and after the sermon yesterday, I was certain my direction for my blog this week had changed.  

Americans seem to be falling into two groups: toilet paper hoarders and indifferent individuals.  As Christians, these moments can test our faith. I have been asked how I am so calm right now.  My calmness has lead me to even be accused of not taking this pandemic seriously.  (Which, I assure you is absolutely not the case.) 

I'm calm because I truly believe that God had a plan for my life before I breathed my first breath, part of that plan also includes when it will all be over.  As Christians we are not supposed to be a people of fear. 2 Timothy 1:7 Tells us that God has given us a spirit not of fear, but of power, love and self-control.  Because of this, I refuse live in a state of panic right now.  God is in control.  

Now, let’s be completely clear; I am NOT saying to ignore the recommendations that the CDC has made or ignore government officials.  The current recommendation of Social Distancing is extremely important to combat this virus. Just because we are not to live in fear, doesn’t mean we are supposed to be foolish and risk those that are part of the most vulnerable groups.  Even if you fall into the category of people who would be less likely to have serious complications if infected, you can be a carrier to others.

As Christians, we should be Salt and Light in the mist of this horrible pandemic. Matthew 5:13-16 states: “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house."

What does it mean to be Salt and Light?

Throughout history, when the world runs away from those that are suffering, Christians run in.  It is our generation’s turn to run in.  The time is now to demonstrate the love of Jesus to others.  We have been given the opportunity to love like Christ loves and to spread the Gospel in a time when people desperately need it. 

In Leviticus 19:18 we read "Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone among your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the Lord"

The Gospel of Matthew in 22:37-39 states "Jesus replied: 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your souls and with all your mind.'  This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'"

More references to loving your neighbor can be found in: Matthew 19:19, Mark 12:31, Luke 10:27, Romans 13:9, Galatians 5:14, and James 2:8.

I think that God REALLY meant it when he told us to love our neighbor. 

How can we be Salt and Light?  

There are so many ideas, but here are few that can make a huge difference for others in need.

1. Check on the elderly or those medically fragile

Yesterday my husband went to each of our elderly neighbors and made sure they had our  numbers in case they need anything over the course of the coming weeks.  The risk is much higher for them.  To limit their possible exposure, we can run an errand, pick up their prescriptions, etc.  

Simple phone calls to those that are living alone or the elderly can raise their spirits and prevent them from feeling forgotten or isolated.  Many nursing homes have been closed to visitors.  Consider having your children make cards and mail them to these nursing homes.  My children and I are going to write out our favorite verses, decorate them as only young children can, and mail them to seniors this week.  This activity not only brightens the day of someone, but it also keeps your kids entertained for a little bit. And we all know that being home for weeks with bored children comes with it's own set of challenges.  

2. Feed the hungry

Call your local food banks and if they are low, consider dropping off some dry or canned goods to help them restock. Schools are going to be providing lunches for students who typically get free and reduced lunch during this time period.  This is a great idea, but what about the families that need this and don't have transportation?  For many American children the meal they get at school may be the only meal they get.  If you are able, offer to pick up the meals and drop them of to your neighbors.  Consider dropping off some bread, peanut butter and jelly and cereal to a neighbor in need.  All of these things can happen without ever coming into physical contact with another person.  These small gestures can impact others.  

3. Share Resources

With many necessities selling off the shelves, many people will be in need.  I have already heard of people looking for diapers, formula and wipes.  Consider offering help where you can.  If you have items to share, drop them of on someone’s porch.  While you are home, take some time to Marie Kondo your home and donate items to people in need or local organizations.  

4. Pray

Pray for your family, pray for your neighbors, pray for healthcare workers, pray for our country, pray for the world, pray for our leaders.  Pray for our president.  Regardless of your personal feelings toward President Trump, pray for him.  Wanting President Trump to fail over the handling of this virus means that more people suffer.  Right now we need to be focusing on the greater good and not on our personal or political feelings or affiliations.  If we are going to get through this, we need to get through it together and not divided. 

5. Remain positive

It can be challenging to be positive when it seems like the world is in utter chaos. Remaining calm helps to ease the anxiety of those around us, especially our children.  If we are calm, they will be calm.  They feed off of our level of anxiety.  Today, my 5 year old is more upset that she is missing her snack captain day than anything else.  I am also allowing a little more screen time than I normally do.  I am devising a plan to keep them occupied and burn off energy when we are stuck at home. 

In the coming days, weeks, and maybe even months-find strength in Jesus.  We can do all things through Christ. Follow where the Holy Spirit is guiding you.  We are not promised life will be easy as Christians.  But we have hope in Jesus. For He has already overcome this world.   We can be Salt and Light. Share the love of Christ with others. And maybe consider sharing a roll of toilet paper too.