In this technological age, very few of us get the time alone we need. We neglect relationships and people in favor of time online with media, games, shopping, researching, reading, learning, and plain ol’ WEB-trolling. If things at home are difficult, we tend to immerse ourselves in work: if things at work are unpleasant, we run late, or are sick a lot. We fill our lives with entertainment and escape to avoid the harsh realities in which we move.

     With our present Coronavirus, Covid19 Pandemic our local, state, and federal governments are intentionally enforcing time alone. While a cure is being sought, we have switched to a defensive posture of confinement to curb the spread of this widespread disease.

     The Influenza Pandemic of 1918 – 1919 killed between 20-40 million lives worldwide. In America more than 675,000 died. This present coronavirus is ten times as lethal as the influenza of 100 years ago. Our present options are middling at best— isolate…, and wait for a breakthrough.

     So, what are we to do with all this alone-time forced upon us? Here are some options—

1. Stay healthy! Eat healthy foods. Maintain some balance of exercise and rest. 10 minutes a day.
2. Get to know yourself again. What are the really important issues you need to think about? Journal?
3. Get to know your family again. Board games. Seriously.
4. Serve others. Care for people who can’t or won’t go out.
5. Be an Encourager. Pray over the phone with people. Send e-cards, bad jokes, emojis.
6. Do not hoard. This is crazy people. Instead, share your resources. Especially toilet paper.
7. We are all going to have to trust in God more…, even atheists. Ultimately, He is the one in control.
8. Use wisdom and caution in all you do.
9. Gather in small groups. Food. Movies in. Worship.
10. Don’t forget to take care of yourself. Our God is full of surprises… .

     For some of us, time alone is the norm. For others, not so much. We are all experiencing this COVID19 pandemic differently. Many lives will be lost. Maybe even yours. Get your affairs in order and your relationship with God in a safe, forgiven, restored place.

     These are the times when genuine followers of Christ can make a great difference in peoples’ lives.

     One final thought— think of giving the gift of toilet paper to your friends & neighbors.

Honor God, honor people…, make a difference.
Gary

Dr. Gary Davis, President

NEXT— What’s happened to us?  Fear of engaging