Words failed me as I looked into the eyes of my friend. They were full of fear, although she reassured me she wasn’t afraid! But how could she not be? We had been hearing of covid-19 for months, but it felt so far from us in Moroto. We hadn’t had a case, but then they brought patients from other districts to our hospital in Moroto. My friend, a 27 year old widow with three young children, had every reason to be afraid.
How do I express my own feelings? I’m not afraid. I agree with Paul when he says, “to live is Christ and to die is gain” (Philippians 1:21). I’m not afraid to die, as I know where I stand with the Lord. I also believe I have a strong enough body to fight if I got sick. I heard from a few friends that have experienced Covid, and it isn’t easy! But just as Paul says a few verses later, “for to you it has been granted for Christ’s sake, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake.” (1:29). If I were to get sick, then I know it would be for Christ’s sake. My confidence and my security in Christ doesn’t mean I throw away all the precautions, but brings hope to suffering.
My confidence is unrealistic for my friends. I don’t have children depending on me. I live in a house by myself, surrounded by a wall. Most my friends live in a room connected to several other rooms with families living practically on top of one another.
How do I share my confidence without sounding arrogant?
How do I look at any of my friends in the eye and say, “this is God’s good plan” then return to my cozy little house? Do I believe it is God’s good plan? With my whole heart!
How do I walk alongside my friends when I live in such contrast?
I don’t have an answer to a single question. But I know the One who does, and in Him I put my trust. So, I will continue to do the only thing I know how to do with confidence — I will place my friendships at the feet of Jesus. Because He will bring about His good plan. My only job is to be obedient.
I told my friend to pray — to talk to God about how she is feeling. I encouraged her to be honest, because He knows already. And I reminded her that He will comfort her and guide her through this time.
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