Uncertain Times
A number of times I’ve been visiting someone who was experiencing a health problem, whether at home or in the hospital, and they will say, “The doctors aren’t sure what’s going on yet.” Perhaps there are more tests that will be run, or the symptoms are not pointing to what the doctors thought was going on. Almost every time the person will express this sentiment: “Not knowing is the hardest part. I’d rather know what was going on, so we’d know what was necessary for the treatment.”
In a sense that’s where we all find ourselves in this moment. None of us knows what the future holds, and it almost seems as though the situation changes day-by-day. There are medical treatments being put off and pushed back. Special events such as prom and graduation are being cancelled. Visits with loved ones aren’t happening. We don’t know when things are going to change. There’s a sense of hopelessness. We’d rather know what was going on, so we’d know what we needed to do.
When things are out of our control, it reminds us of our absolutely need for the one who is truly in control and who knows what is to come. I’ve been going to the psalms for comfort in this time more than normal. Listen to the beginning of Psalm 61:
Hear my cry, O God;
listen to my prayer. From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I. For you have been my refuge, a strong tower against the foe. (Psalm 61:1-3, NIV)
When we face uncertainty, we should run to the safe refuge of the Lord. When the future is uncertain, we are called to place our trust more firmly in him. As the old song says:
Many things about tomorrow I don’t seem to understand, But I know who holds tomorrow And I know who hold my hand.
Because we are all facing uncertainty at the same time, it means an extra dose of stress that can put pressure on relationships. We may have less patience with our friends and loved ones, not to mention acquaintances and strangers. Remember that we are all dealing with disappointments, difficulties, and discouragements in this time. While all of our struggles are not the same, it’s safe to say that all of us are struggle in some way. So it’s a time for us to listen, to express empathy, and to show an extra measure of kindness.
This is a time when we all need each other more than ever. Continue to reach out by phone, or email, or messenger. Look for ways to stay connected to one another. If you have a specific need, please reach out.
I’m praying for you all, everyday. I love you all.
God bless, Brian