July 2, 2020

Last year, I never heard of a coronavirus.  Now, a coronavirus impacts almost every aspect of my life.

Last year, I was doing my best to fill the sanctuary with people.  Now, I am doing my best to make sure it stays empty.

Last year, I would immediately shake someone’s hand or hug a friend.  Now, shaking hands and hugs are out of the question.

Last year, I never dreamed that wearing a mask may save someone’s life.  Now, I wear a mask so I don’t endanger others.

Last year, the economy looked great.  Now, the economy looks like the Titanic going down for the last time.

Last year, I never dreamed that I would intentionally stay away from my grandchildren.  Now, in order to keep them safe, I intentionally stay away from my grandchildren.

Last year, I never imagined so many people coming to the church for food.  Now, we give out more food than ever before.

Last year, the unemployment numbers were very low.  Now, millions upon millions of people are out of work.

Last year, I never envisioned where we would be today.

What this year has taught me is that my plans and assumptions about the future are not set in concrete.  They are set in Jell-O.  Everything can change in the blink of an eye.  I have come to expect the unexpected.

The good news is that in this sea of uncertainty that surrounds us all, there is a life raft that is always present and can weather any storm.  It is Jesus and his undying love.  This is why the writer of Hebrews said:  “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”(Hebrews 13:8)

So put your faith in the only One who will never change, let you down, or desert you.  Jesus truly is the only safe harbor in the storms of life.

Prayer:  Dear Gracious Heavenly God, I do not know what today will bring but I know as long as you are with me, I can face whatever comes my way.  Thank you for loving me and always being with me.  In Jesus’ name I pray.  Amen.

We don’t know what the future will bring.  But as long as we know Jesus, we know we are in good hands.  That’s all we really need to know.

I pray your day is filled with joy and laughter.
Tom Robbins