Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Ephesians 4:32 (NIV)
Due to the coronavirus pandemic and the call for social distancing, most people around the world have come face-to-face with unfamiliar territory, new challenges, and in many cases, a new reality. Those things that were once secure, such as an income stream, have become uncertain and those things that were fleeting, such as anxiety, have become a constant. Drastic changes such as these can cause considerable tension in family relationships and in marriages as we have been directed to “shelter in” at home. Among the many videos circulating on social media cites was one that captured the essence of our current situation. A man was being surveyed and he was given two choices. “Due to the coronavirus,” the surveyor said, “you have two choices.” The man listened intently. The surveyor continued, “You can A) be quarantined with your wife and family or B)…” But before the surveyor can give option B, the man quickly interjected, “B!”
While the video provides a moment of comic relief, the struggle is real. Statistics show that the number of cases of abuse have skyrocketed since shelter in place orders have been instated and people have talked openly on social media about the strain such measures make on marriages. During times like these, it is important to remember Paul’s words from Ephesians 4:32. We must be kind and compassionate to one another. Kindness goes a long way, even under normal circumstance. And forgiveness counts for even more. Besides, who doesn’t need kindness and forgiveness? We all do. Therefore, it is important to remember that we get it… from God first in Christ. But He doesn’t want us to hoard it for ourselves. He wants us to share with others, especially those closest to us. So, as we shelter in, let us keep strong faith that we will get through this and let us remember to be kind, compassionate, and forgiving. That is the best path forward.
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