“If I walk into the thick of danger, you will preserve my life from the anger of my enemies. You will extend your hand; your right hand will save me.
The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me. Lord, your faithful love endures forever; do not abandon the work of your hands.” Psalm 138:7-8 (CSB)
In Psalm 138:7-8 the psalmist expresses thoughts that can be encouraging in today’s environment. Even when we are in the midst of troubled times, God is able to preserve our lives and to deliver us. We are not able to see or discern the end point of the COVID-19 crisis, but we can trust that God is with us. In all of this, God has a plan and purpose that is being accomplished. The challenge for each of us is to find our place in what God is wanting to do through us – touching lives even through social distancing, worshipping virtually at home, running errands for those that are at risk, providing support for others, praying for friends, families and neighbors.
I appreciate how the Message translation of the Bible states it in verse 8: “Finish what you started in me, God. Your love is eternal – don’t quit on me now.”
Here is a written prayer for us: “God, we ask for strength, patience, and discipline during social distancing. Help us to grasp the unique opportunities for ministry that you have given us today. Help each of us to give encouragement and support to those around us. Please give us sensitivity to those who need extra attention. Father in heaven, we trust that you are at work in this time. Thank you that your love is eternal. In Jesus’ name, Amen.