Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9
I was determined to have hamburgers on the grill this weekend. However, it was looking like that may not happen. This was my fourth grocery to check this morning. I headed straight for the meat section. My shoulders dropped, the shelves were cleared out. Or so I thought. In the bottom of the cooler were seven packages of hamburger. Above them a sign read: “Only two packs per customer.” I checked them over, choosing the best of what was offered and tucked them under my arm. As I made my way down the aisles I noticed how many of the shelves were empty. Quantity restriction signs hung loosely over empty shelves.
It is an emotion that I find hard to explain as I look at bare shelves and people in surgical masks. Nothing but fearful eyes darting about. Even children sitting in carts with masks seem unnaturally subdued. No smiles, just the undercurrent of fear and uncertainty.
Life, in a very short few weeks, has been turned upside down. Though our lives have been altered there is One that will never change. One that will always have what you need, when you need it. No waiting, no restrictions or emptiness. Jesus is listening, comforting, strengthening and loving us all.
Unfortunately, that is easy to forget when your eyes are filled with these images. Though we cannot see Jesus with our earthly eyes, we know in our hearts that he is here. He is with you and me. You must not allow these images to discourage you from the truth. No matter what you may see, read or hear, God is ultimately still in control.
Be strong and courageous.
Typist for Jesus
Mustard Seeds, Modern Parables 