How can we praise through the lock-down?
The story of Covid-19 will be one that will be told for generations to come. Children will ask parents to describe what it was like to be in ‘lock-down’. You are living that story now. What sort of story are you going to tell? Several of my friends at church will tell a different story to me, those who work in the NHS. One of my friends has been able to visit and offer comfort to those who are ill and are not able to connect with their loved ones. Thursday evening is an excellent time to show your support for those serving during this time and praising their efforts.
Paul and Silas knew what it was like to experience lock-down. They had found themselves in prison in Philippi. They were beaten and sent to prison, awaiting trial. They were placed in the inner cell and had their feet fastened in stocks. They were not escaping. But the mistake the prison guard made was that he locked up Paul and Silas together!
What would the outcome have been if Paul and Silas had been separated? We will never know. But we do know that, together, their response to being locked-up was praise. Our challenge this week, especially as lock-down continues, is to appreciate those we have around us and use this time to praise.
Our prayers are with those who find themselves isolated alone. Please take the opportunities that come your way this week to reach out to those who are lonely and encourage them to join you in praise.
