Probably, if not certainly, the thing I’ve struggled with more than anything during this past year, has been the removal of so many areas of service from my life.
Once a member of a number of organizations and board positions in our town, a combination of aging and the need for more intensive care for my husband has resulted in a resignation from them all.
Then, not being able to attend church services in person means I am no longer able to play the piano while the congregation sings along; not only that, but I am no longer able to entertain seniors in the two care homes in our community. Both those losses are keenly felt.
As hard to believe as it might be for some folks, I truly miss my morning bus rides. I formed friendships with regular riders like myself. After arriving in town, I’d hurry over to our local Tim Hortons, have tea with another group of friends and then catch a second bus for a ride around town before the trip back home.
What has been torn from my life these past nearly 12 months, have been opportunities to share kindness, to answer questions regarding my faith in Christ and to encourage folks who needed some brightness in their lives. All gone, it seems, for now.
God personally encouraged me this week, however, as I slogged my way through the books of Leviticus and Deuteronomy which described the Old Testament responsibilities of those chosen to prepare, care for and transport the tabernacle of God. A light went on.
I’m surrounded by neighbours and walking friends who bless me daily; to bless them, my responsibility. It’s about simply sharing love wherever I am.
“…I am giving you the priesthood [COVID isolation] as your special privilege of service….” Numbers 18:7 (New Living Translation)
