Christian Devotionals and Scripture Applied to Everyday Life

This past weekend was supposed to be an exciting one. Luke and Nathan should have been walking onto a stage at the Wright State University’s Nutter Center Arena to receive diplomas. All of us should have been sitting in the stands cheering as Luke was hooded and recognized for earning his Ph.D. in mechanical engineering. Nathan also would have been handed his diploma for a Bachelor’s degree in the same. Two graduates – double the celebration. But because of the circumstances caused by the COVID-19 virus everything changed and we had a choice to make. We could sit around and feel sorry over the disappointment, or accept the day the Lord had made and be glad in it!

Grief is a lonely street. Devastating events often drop us into emotional places of isolation. The dagger of loss can cut and separate us from even the most caring people around us. Grief comes from many things - disappointment, betrayal, death, life transition, and more. All of the complex emotions derived from the pain can create a sense of loneliness. It’s kind of like walking alone in the rain.

These recent times of crisis bring different issues to different people. Some have lost touch with close companions creating extreme loneliness. Others risk the danger of wounded relationships. In the past month many individuals have been trying to find their way through an emotional haze of isolation. They desperately long for physical interaction with friends and loved ones. This loss of connection can create depression or extreme sadness. But there are others who are struggling with different obstacles.

Danger is always a good incentive to take extra care. The recent spread of the COVID-19 virus has gotten people doing things and not doing things they hadn’t even thought about before. That is why Abigail and I recently entered the ranks of mask-wearing patrons.

Isolation really stinks! Who would have ever dreamed a year ago that this Easter season we would be hunkered down in our houses avoiding contact with those we love? Today’s proverb takes on new meaning in light of COVID-19. Wisdom for today says, “Those who meet with any of their companions may come to ruin . . . but thank the Lord there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.”

Death is a very devastating event. Losing a loved one is one of the hardest things we will ever have to go through on this earth. Even Jesus wept while standing at a friend’s graveside. But for the Christian, death is not a time to say, “Goodbye.” Instead it’s a time to say, “See you later.”