During the current COVID-19 crisis that we are presently in and will probably be in for some time, we are being asked to drastically alter our daily routines. In most states we are told to stay in one’s own space, unless we need to go out for the “essential” things of life, or go out to work in an “essential” operation. Thus, we can’t go out to be with others in so many settings that we used to take for granted, and in most situations; we loved to do.
We are all thinking of creative ways to keep ourselves sane and healthy during this time. I would like to again offer something else that we could all think of doing; meditating day and night on God’s word. As some of you know my calling with this Blog, and with the books I have written, is to assist individuals and congregations on their spiritual pilgrimage. This ministry is one where we are all encouraged to begin or enhance our spiritual practices. Like anything else in life, these routines take time, effort, and energy.
I am a fairly big sports fan, and have also read my fair share of sport stories and sport biographies. One of the common themes that has appeared is that the very best in any field, devotes a great amount of time in developing their abilities. A person can’t rely solely on their natural gifts; a great amount of hard work is also required. Most professional athletes train almost year-round, even when they are out of season. (Some work at their sport day and night.) They realize that they have to be in the best condition in order to complete with others in their field. Many years ago, that wasn’t necessary, however in the highly competitive world that we live in today, giving ones all requires more effort then what was needed before.
Likewise, if a person who proclaims that Jesus Christ is Lord of their life, and then wanted to develop a closer loving relationship with Jesus, it seems that they would also need to devote time, energy, and perseverance in studying the Bible in order to develop this relationship. Many current spiritual writers, and the desert mothers and fathers knew that they couldn’t become the person that God wanted them to be, without putting their heart and soul into that spiritual journey. Thus, they have written about this process, and lived it on a daily basis. Jesus, himself, often went off alone to pray, and he was a good Jewish man, in that he knew the scriptures as well. It seems with all of these witnesses; how can we not do the same thing.
During the current crisis that we are in, and while we are being asked to change our routines, maybe think of starting or improving on your spiritual practices. This verse mentions meditating day and night, which could be interpreted as this practice becoming part of the very fiber of one’s life. For those on this spiritual pilgrimage and for all of us during this uncertain time in our world today, may you find the time, every day, to meditate on God’s word. Maybe you can start some practices that can be continued after we get through this Coronavirus crisis. Again, be well, safe, and as sane as you can be! Peace! Vernon T.
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