Guest post by Christ Church member Janet Sheahan
The best part of the quarantine is that I am spending more time reading and studying the Word, without thinking about what I have to do next. I love having extra time to pray for family and friends as well as our politicians and needy strangers all over the world.
I also am enjoying talking to people, in town and out of town, that I have not talked to in a long time. I am getting little house projects done, like everyone else, such as cleaning out drawers and closets. The attic is still calling me to have a party by myself up there!
A fun, deliberate and necessary part of each day is getting outside to walk or hike with friends, while staying six feet apart. We just talk a little louder than normal so we can hear what is being said. Of course like most people, I have gotten into a habit of watching more news than normal. I have finished watching all of the Downton Abbey series and loved every, or almost every, moment of it! Also I appreciate family and friends more than ever and any little attention I get!
The worst part is being alone as a widow and not being energized by physically seeing and being with people. I have to be more mentally disciplined than ever to ward off the Enemy who is so subtle during those long, quiet times. James 4:7 helps me, “Stand firm against the devil; resist him and he will flee from you.”
This came to me:
With effort I am determined that the Coronavirus will:
not cripple my love for God
not shatter my hope in Christ
not shake my faith in the Lord’s promises
not diminish my relationships with my family and friends
not rob me of joy
not undermine the power of God’s Word.
Instead, with effort, the Coronavirus:
can instill in me new courage to persevere
can draw me deeper into the Word
can remind me that God is sovereign
can open up new friendships
can strengthen my prayers
can expand my view of God
can wake me up
can reset my priorities,
if I am open to it!
Thank you Janet, for putting how I feel in words!
Janet, I enjoyed reading your post today. When covid-19 is over, I think we will be living in a safer and better world! Also, I’m sure there will be more people believing in God! Can’t wait to see your smiling face again at Christ Church,
Love you Janet!! You are such a blessing to so many!
Janet – what an inspiration you are! God bless you!
Thank you so much,Janet!!❤️
Like you, my prayer is for many to come to know, love, glorify and honor our Jesus during this time of reflection. Malachi 3:2,3
Great thoughts, Janet
Janet, thank you so much for sharing your thoughts. Amazing how so many of the things you are doing have dove-tailed my own experiences during this time. I’ve gotten closer to neighbors who’ve been just down the street for years but until recently, I’d never even been in their yards. I can’t imagine how hard a time this must be for you without Mike. I was single for twenty-three years, and I’ve thought recently how much harder this has to be for someone who has lost their partner. Know that you are loved and admired! Hopefully, we can all hug again one day! Barbara
Janet, I really enjoyed reading your thoughts. It was almost like we were having a conversation. Thank you for sharing Them and for the inspiration they bring. Take care and stay well. I look forward to seeing you when we are on the other side of this virus.
Patty
Janet, I really enjoyed reading your inspirational thoughts. Your thoughts are a “mirror” of one of my favorite authors, Catherine Marshall. As you read her books you experience a peace that is past understanding! So, you not only shared your experiences but the peace the Holy Spirit has given you in your most difficult times.
I experienced that peace as I read your post!
Thank-you for sharing your heart with the body of Christ.
Dear friend,
Thank you for your thoughtful, honest and helpful words! Even though we have many restrictions we also have many freedoms for such a time as this. Blessed with abundance, we have time to thank Him and remember His incredible goodness and faithfulness to us. We will rejoice when we can join together again!