We are about to begin a new program year here at FLC. I have to admit that it is really hard to get excited in the midst of this pandemic, especially with the Delta variant raging around us. How about you? Are you having trouble navigating your feelings about school, work, or travel? Are you wondering, like me, where God is in the midst of this seeming chaos?
Many psychologists have been letting us know that we need to give ourselves permission to not be ok with all of this. Tired? Yeah, me too. Sad? Yeah me too. Unmotivated? Yeah, me too. Sluggish, muddle headed, confused, frustrated, angry, done? Yeah, me too.
These feelings are on top of the “usual” stuff that goes on around us. For example, Rev. Rick Pribernow died on Saturday, August 14. He was the long time director of Open Door Ministries. He was a friend, mentor and truth teller to me and many others. In normal times we would be able to morn together and tell his story. But, in the midst of covid19, there is so much that we can’t or should not do to protect the vulnerable, which was a hallmark of his ministry.
In the seventh chapter of John Jesus promises:
“Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.”
I am so thirsty.
So is the earth, it seems, and all her inhabitants.
So, I pray:
Jesus, our living water, we thirst. We long for this living water you promise. Fill us with it. We are tired, we are groaning for relief. Flood our souls with your grace and peace and hope for a future free from this oppressive disease and this strong willed people who refuse to do what needs to be done for the sake of the world. We do trust in you. Help us be living water. Amen.
