With stay at home orders effecting most of us, we find ourselves asking what basic things do I need. My husband and I are finding ways to avoid the grocery store whenever possible. This is a lifestyle we have embraced for a while, simply to be healthier. This week we have begun seed starts, planted in the field, gathered eggs, fished, worked on our blackberry trellis and harvested fresh kale. He has a full time work from home job so these things are done during the time he used to spend commuting.
We have returned to simpler ways by bartering as well. We traded blackberry brambles for fishing privileges. I scored two hydrangeas for rabbit manure. Last fall we swapped honey for fresh sausage. Sometimes it feels like a real life version of Let’s Make A Deal.
As our souls return to the basics, we realize that God placed man in a garden to begin with. We as humans messed a good thing up. The realization of just how far we have drifted from God’s original plan has left us longing for a daily walk with God like Adam had. Thankfully, he provided us a way to do this by sending Jesus to pay the price for our sins.
This week I have talked with friends and family who are finding peace through their faith. One lady shared that she prays daily and visits the nursing home to look through the window to visit with her husband. She said, “He looks good and God is giving me strength as I trust Him”. A family member ‘s wife sat outside a hospital knowing her mother had just passed away and her father and sister were in critical condition inside the building. Texted prayers and phone calls were pouring in to show her love. She was so grateful for the words as others slowed down to remember her family.
Food, water, shelter and faith are the basics of life. If you look around, you will see people working and giving to make sure others have these basic needs met. In our community the homeless have been transported to a park where they are being provided with bathrooms, tents, hot meals, water and a place to wash and sanitize. Our weather is great so the very basic needs are being met. School children are being provided with food. Gift cards for takeout meals are being given to healthcare workers. Three industries have stopped production to make face masks and gowns.
We can all search our hearts as we return to the basics of living a life of faith. With the assurance that brings, we can share in meeting basic needs such as food and water as well as sharing our hope in Christ.
Word for Today
Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. I Peter 5: 7
Song for Today
Prayer for Today
Dear God,
We do come to you today humbled. Forgive us for waiting until things are beyond our ability to handle before we run to you. We do still believe in the old rugged cross and the hope of Christ. Sometimes we stumble around before yielding to you and falling on our knees.
Give us a heart that is pure and a love that is blind. Help us to see others through your eyes and offer encouragement. Help us to filter the chatter of instagram, facebook, tiktok and the news channels. Let us hear your voice! It is the only voice that speaks truth only and calms fears rather than instills them.
We stand firmly in you believing that you are still in control.
Amen
Walking Them Home 