Due to the ongoing Covid-19 situation, my parents and I have not been attending weekly services at church. For one thing, I feel bad that I don’t get to spend time with God, and for another thing, my relationships with my cell mates are seemingly deteriorating. I honestly don’t know what to do and I just feel really bad. Any advice? – Troubled
dear Troubled,
The Covid-19 crisis has been a challenging one on many fronts. The loneliness you feel is very real and with “social/physical distancing” being emphasised, it is normal to feel like this has taken a toll on your relationships. You see, God created us as relational beings meant to live and love in community. Therefore, being “isolated” from your community can feel horrible. Nonetheless, keep your chin up! Don’t let discouragement get the better of you. Act in love, with wisdom guiding your steps.
The first thing we need to keep in mind is that amidst everything happening, God is definitely in control and we can trust in Him. Physically going to church is but one way to spend time with God and to build relationships with your cell mates. However, it is not the only way or the main way. Jesus lives in your heart. You can seek Him anywhere, anytime — and He invites you to do so! Spend time with God by including Him in your daily life by praying, singing praises to Him whether you’re indoors or outdoors, and reading the Bible. Instead of spending your energy feeling bad, take action to work on your relationship with God in a new way. It would be great if you could share with your cell leader and cell mates how you have been feeling and let them journey with you. Perhaps they have been feeling the same way too. Keep finding new ways to connect and to give the gift of your presence even if it doesn’t mean a physical presence at this point. I pray that you’ll have the creativity and boldness to seek out these new ways!
As for your relationships with your cell mates, take the initiative to drop them a message or give them a call to ask how they have been. It may be awkward at first, but taking the initiative shows that you care and desire to invest in these relationships. Also, there are certain projects that are underway now to help people affected by Covid-19. Perhaps you can be the catalyst to gather your cell mates together to do something tangible to help those in need and be a light in the darkness. There are multiple projects run by Christians and non-Christians alike for the homeless and vulnerable communities who are most affected by the Covid-19 situation, and you can find ways to support them by spreading the word about their needs, praying for them, and even giving financially.
In Matthew 5:16, Jesus teaches us to “let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” May this time of great struggle reveal Christ in your life and push you to know Him and make Him known in ways you never thought possible.