Wired for relationships

In the Creation Story we are reminded that we are made in God's image ~ God Father, God Savior, God Sustainer. God who is relationship with God's Self, created us to likewise be in relationship with God and in relationship with each other. In this way, the Bible tells us that we were actually built for community.

I know, introverts could use a little less 'community' and extroverts thrive on the interactions.

Now, suddenly, we are being asked {told…} to drastically alter our people-practices. It has only been a few days and already we yearn for the connections.

While out for a walk, somebody I know drives by, sees me then pulls over for at least a quick conversation. In the grocery store we awkwardly hold a 'proper distance' to check in with each other. Some of my favorite puppy-parents in town have still allowed me puppy pats before heading our separate ways.

We need each other; because that is how God chose to fashion God's created ones.

Our middle daughter Sarah is living in Madrid, Spain. They about two weeks ahead of us with the outbreak and Madrid is the epicenter of that country's illness. Sarah has been out of work and in quarantine for over a week. Mind you she lives in a wee apartment. Worse yet, her bedroom doesn't have a window. No yard. No garden. Her only window access is in her roommates' room. Beyond her roommates and skyping, she has been disconnected. Her and most of the rest of Madrid and beyond, far and wide.

An interesting thing has evolved in isolation in Madrid. At 8:00 pm each night the city goes to a window {perhaps a flat-mate's window}, they open those windows and applause goes up. She told me it was a 'thank you' for the health workers and public safety folks who are out on the front lines. Police cars now join in, driving up the street with their woo-woo lights twirling. I believe her, that the people are thanking the others. But I also believe that when those who have been quarantined, when they see and hear their neighbors likewise at the window, somehow in that act, community is restored.

Praying that we all have eyes to see when our own opportunities for safe and healthy community show up.

Pastor Leah