In the newspaper this week, they had some funny quotes from people in order to provide humor for people coping with staying home. A sign outside a church said: “Had not planned on giving up quite this much for Lent.” The point of the article was to point out that laughter helps the brain relax. They suggested you should give yourself permission to find humor.
Many of us have old movies or TV shows on CD or streaming channels and could find some of the comedies we used to love watching. Is there a book you enjoyed? Are there some pictures you could look through that bring back happy memories? Take time to laugh and not fret. My husband and I did a Zoom online session with our 32 year old, and we got silly sharing funny songs or facial expressions. It was comforting to know everyone was okay and we could relax.
In Pastor Bryan’s sermon, he stressed how we are not alone. We have our faith family with us. How can you experience the goodness of God during these difficult times of isolation? You could be an encouraging voice by calling a friend or emailing a member of our faith family. You could tell a funny or inspiring story that makes you so happy that you are part of a faith family.
In the Prayer for Illumination on March 29, it said: Draw us close, Holy Spirit, as the Scriptures are read and the Word is proclaimed. Let the word of faith be on our lips and in our hearts, and let all other words slip away.
The scripture readings were:
So then, whenever we have an opportunity, let us work for the good of all, and especially for those of the family of faith. Galatians 6:10
O taste and see that the Lord is good; Happy are those who take refuge in him. Psalm 34:8
All of these words allow us to be calm, work for the good of all, and be happy to take refuge in him. We are your faith family and are here for you. God is with us.