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During our church council retreat this past month, one of the questions that we discussed was, “how are we, as a community of faith, called to respond to this specific moment in history?” There was lots of wonderful conversation around this question, as well as plenty of great ideas.  One of the suggestions, however, really stuck out to me - the need to provide respite and care during these anxious times.

This suggestion struck a chord with me because it is both something I personally feel called to do and something that I sorely need in my life.  As a sensitive and empathetic person, I am absolutely overwhelmed with emotion right now.  I am worried about my LGBTQ+  loved ones, I am angry at leaders who use vulnerable groups as scapegoats to further their own agenda, I am saddened to see so many people in our country spouting hatred and violence towards those they disagree with, and I am scared of how much wider these divisions continue to grow and the damage it is doing to our country. There are days when all of these emotions are so overwhelming and draining that I feel unable to function.  And so, when the church council identified this need for respite and care during these anxious times, I absolutely and 100% agreed.

Later this month, we will celebrate Holy Week and enter into the story of Jesus's betrayal and crucifixion. On Maundy Thursday, we will hear about Jesus washing his disciples feet and then calling them to do the same for one another.  This extremely anxious time in the Gospel story is full of fear and uncertainty, as well as sadness and grief.  The foot washing story reminds us that in the midst of all those difficult emotions, Jesus takes time to tenderly care for his disciples. Jesus demonstrates gentle and loving care for his followers by kneeling to wash the feet of each one, showing his deep love for them.  He then gives his followers a commission to do the same for one another. 

We often talk about how, as followers of Jesus, we are called to stand up and speak out against injustice, to feed the hungry, and clothe the naked.  But it is important to remember that we are not left to do this alone.  We are called to do this hard work together.  And during times when it is hardest, we cannot forget our commission to follow the example of Jesus and tenderly care for one another along the way.  Here are just a few examples of ways to care for one another during these anxious times, sharing the love and care of Jesus:

  • Call, email, or text someone who might be struggling. Let them know you care and are available to listen.
  • Make time for fun and laughter with family and friends.
  • Be creative! Paint, make music, plant flowers - participate in God's Divine creativity.
  • Express gratitude. Let people know that you appreciate them.
  • Small gestures of kindness. Ground yourself in hope and kindness by doing something kind for someone else.  It can be something as small as a note of encouragement, helping with a chore, or giving a compliment.
  • Come together for worship. Whenever we gather together, we can create a space of safety and love where each of us can rest and be restored.