Self-Isolation Blessings

For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.

— Matthew 18:20 (NIV)

My wife and I are over 70 and at high risk for any infectious disease. I have weak lungs, and my wife is concerned about interacting with others and unknowingly bringing an illness home to me. We decided to self-quarantine at home before the first positive test for coronavirus in the state where we live. We knew we could miss interacting with others — in particular with the dear souls in our little congregation. We wrote a note to our pastor explaining why we would not be at worship for a time. We know that whatever the circumstances and challenges we face, Jesus is with us and good comes. 

Three uplifting events occurred. First, two persons contacted us and offered to bring us provisions. One is a former student of mine, the other a former colleague of my wife in teaching. Their spontaneous offers of help reminded us of the depth of compassion we experience, and hopefully share. Second, our pastor called to tell us the church would be closing during this period. The congregation made the decision that the health and well-being of the congregation should not be jeopardized. Our pastor was calling everyone in the congregation to let them know and to offer support if needed. Third, my wife and I now have a little worship service together in our family room. We hold hands and pray, read a devotional, and reflect together. My wife reminded me that when we were first married, 52 years ago, we would worship together in our home. “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”

Prayer: Dear Father, Help us to

experience every day as a blessing. Thank you for giving us the strength to follow you. In the name of Jesus we pray, Amen.

David Albright (New Mexico, USA)