You’re Invited

I’ve had a few conversations lately where people have lifted up the silver linings that the shutdown has offered. Some have experienced more time to evaluate their lives and have reveled in being closer to their families. For all these gifts, we are grateful. Yet, as we begin to craft the stories we will tell about this time, the ways in which we will remember the pandemic, it is difficult for me to go all in on either the positive or the negative. We have certainly learned how resilient humans are. We’ve learned that we can adapt to new ways of being together. Yet, what has resulted in more time and space for some has been a time of intense work for others; in the medical field, in education, in advocacy, those who have been trying to stay afloat or manage their child’s distance learning, etc.. While some of us are refreshed, some are deeply weary.

Are any of you feeling weary? Do you wake up tired? Does the idea of picking up the “heavy burdens” each day make you ache a little? It’s okay if you do. It’s okay to be human. You’re not meant to be superman and you’re allowed to take off the tights and cape sometimes. In this truthful vulnerability I hope we will be able to hear the call of Jesus. A call to come. A call to take comfort in the presence of God with us. It is a call to cast all our cares upon the one who cares most deeply for us. It’s an invitation to community…to healing…to rest.

Whether you have much to rejoice in today or find yourself too tired to even pray, know that God is with you. God is for you. You are welcome here.