Some challenging rambling thoughts for today:
- A word recently running through my mind, which I haven’t heard much: sacrifice.
- We hear in the media “we’re all in this together”. What does that mean?
- Many display sacrifice: medical workers surely exposed and other high risk employees come to mind. Props to many working extra hours at the cost of physical risk and less time with family.
- But other commentary I see revolves around personal inconvenience. I can’t have my routine. I have to teach my kids. I don’t have the free time. I am quarantined. The governor has taken my freedom.
- I do not in any way mean to slight those whose work situations have changed or ended.
- But if most agree regarding the seriousness of the virus, then could I suggest we change our language from personal inconvenience to sacrifice?
- I don’t mean to comment on the long term or the end game. I am not a scientist and I don’t claim to know those things.
- But I do speak as someone with a decent amount of uncertainty. In the midst of uncertainty, I hope we can use language of faith, trust, and preparing to sacrifice.
- Maybe we’ll need to do with less. Or, if we’re able, give a little more. Or dip into our savings to help someone who needs it.
- I only intend these as suggestions to get us thinking. It will look different for each of us.
- Maybe we’ll need to consider generations before who sacrificed loved ones in wars. Some worked long hours in different jobs – all for the greater good of the country.
- Especially for those who believe, we must remember Jesus who lived an entire life of sacrifice.
- Please read Philippians 2:1-11 and see the humility of Christ modeled.
- Please read 2 Corinthians 8:1-15 to see believers truly sacrificing for each other as a reflection of Jesus.
- I fully admit I don’t understand all the economic ramifications. I hope small businesses can get short term loans to keep things moving. I hope workers can get unemployment benefits to stay afloat.
- But I also hope that we’ll look at and consider what we can all do to sacrifice for others.
- As we form our opinions and set our priorities in the coming weeks, let’s remember Christ who sacrificed for us.