After working remotely for nearly 8 months, I came to The Church of St. Michael & St. George full of hope of "getting back to normal." What I've come to realize is, there isn't a "normal" any longer. I'm reminded of this often... Every time I have to run back to my car before entering the grocery story because I forgot to put on my mask. By the looks and stares, sometimes hostile, that others who aren't social distancing or wearing a mask receive. By my 12-year-old son beginning his school year on a camera, trying to learn virtually. By having to explain that his clubs and sports have been paused until things “return to normal.” And when I drive past my favorite local florist and see that they've closed shop permanently, not surviving the economic impact of COVID.
We've all been thrust into this new world without any options. My church group offered a Bible Study to discuss Jeremiah 17:7-8 which states, “Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, and whose hope is the Lord. For he shall be like a tree planted by waters, which spreads out its roots by the river and will not fear when heat comes, but its leaf will be green, and will not be anxious in the year of drought, nor will cease from yielding fruit.”
As we develop a relationship of trusting Him, we are watered and grown by His presence. The story of Job illustrates the sustenance He provides when we keep the faith, no matter how dire the circumstances. Enduring and not submitting to our doubts, even when there is no guarantee of our long-term plans, keeps us from being tempted to settle for short-term gains that are far from His plan.
My family and I are learning to navigate this new world. My son and I play silly games when we’re out of the house like spot the smiles behind the masks (it’s the twinkle in the eye). We’ve found new and fun ways to spend with family. Last but not least, by cutting out some noise and getting closer to God. What my family and I have discovered is that while things may not be getting back to "normal" anytime soon, we can create a new normal, and that’s okay.
Sonya Woolley
Business Administrator
