What have you even done with your time?
On multiple occasions, as a result of video calling with friends, this question stayed with me long after the call ended. Naturally, the topic of conversation was largely centred on the current pandemic. And it always led to how we’re keeping ourselves busy. Like many people, I went into this time with good intentions to get stuff done and learn more. But somehow… Days have disappeared and I’m nowhere near to completing my to-do list.
Across the world, people have been hard-hit by this pandemic. The consequences thereof looks different for most people. Some struggle with fulfilling their basic needs of food and sanitation, some need to deal with a salary cut or retrenchment, some are full-time homeschooling parents and full-time employees, some are fighting internal mental battles and too many are severely ill from the virus. And amidst some of the biggest struggles we’ve yet encountered, we’re isolated and our normal routines have had to be redone.
It’s okay to not be okay right now
The situation we’re in is traumatic. In different ways for different people, but traumatic nonetheless. Those to-do lists and motivational talks I had pumped myself up with, they seem somewhat ridiculous in our given circumstances. How am I meant to start a business after the economy has taken an even bigger hit and people are out there starving and vulnerable? How am I meant to write a book when my thoughts are running marathons about the uncertainties of my future and of those I love? How are we meant to be 100% efficient and productive when people are fighting their own battles all around us and nothing feels okay or normal?
I know this experience isn’t unique to me. No matter your situation, you’ve probably also had thoughts of doubt, fear and anxieties. Whether for yourself, your loved ones, or what you’re watching online.
I was letting these thoughts get the best of me. I was letting it consume me and take my time. Until I had to refocus my mind to be effective at work. The theme of the next two months hit me – grace. AMAZING GRACE! Although I have heard many teachings on grace, read many resources and experienced it myself (especially since it was just Easter time), the realisation of what grace truly is hit me again. And I realised, this battle isn’t mine alone to fight.
Saved by grace!
Our salvation is centred on grace. Without it, we’d still be lost sinners. With it, we’re co-heirs with Christ. And during this season, this battle, we’re not alone. We didn’t have to fight sin alone, and we don’t have to fight this pandemic and its consequences alone. The simplicity of the solution is the type that you completely miss amidst the chaos in your own mind, it’s the kind that is simple, yet difficult to do.
We simply need to walk into the embrace and presence of our Father and trust, that despite our circumstances, He is good and His will and purpose will be done on Earth. His presence holds truth, love and revelation. It offers rest, peace and joy. Our lives may have changed tremendously, but His word is steadfast. His promises are still true. His righteousness supreme.
You are not alone. Today I want to encourage you to lay your thoughts, worries and situation at the foot of the cross as you step into His loving embrace. Experience the grace and truth that he has waiting for you. And let His embrace empower you to conquer the battle of your mind, your health and your earthly situation. And if that is all you do with your time, rejoice for He is good.
“And the God of grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.” 1 Peter 5:10
