3 Ways to Love Others this Month
The news of increasing COVID-19 cases and the onset of more public health restrictions in Manitoba is disheartening for many. These new restrictions mean that our Sunday gatherings will move fully online, to be streamed live at 10:00am and will also be available on demand through both Facebook and YouTube.
As we are faced with a new set of restrictions we must remember our uniquely Christian commission to share the light and love of Christ with our world. Here are three ways we can love others during the next month of restrictions.
1. Check in with a video call
A simple check in can go a long way for those who are feeling the weight of the season. Making an intentional effort to make a meaningful connections with others is a mutually uplifting experience, whether with a video call or a hand written note. The temptation is to hunker down within the walls of our homes and to isolate ourselves not just physically, but also emotionally and spiritually. Saying "you can’t do life alone” is one thing, living and acting in a manner which embodies it as a value is another.
Can you find the time today to slow down from your hurried pace to connect with others? In his book the Ruthless Elimination of Hurry, John Mark Comer says: “Both sin and busyness have the exact same effect—they cut off your connection to God, to other people, and even to your own soul.” Let’s rid ourselves of busyness and choose connection this month.
2. Directly ask if they have a need to be met and consider how to best meet it
The reality is that many people suffer silently through their challenges. While you can’t force someone to open up to you, you can offer yourself to them as someone they can trust and confide in. Asking direct questions such as “how are you really doing?” or “is there any type of support you need right now?” can help tear down defensive walls and can pave the way for more concrete follow up care.
When someone truly opens up to you carefully consider how you can best meet their needs. If you need help in this discernment process, our pastoral team can be reached at 204.226.2324.
3. Pray earnestly for their well-being
St. Thomas Aquinas said that “to love is to will the good of the other.” If God is the true embodiment of love, then to truly love someone is to will God’s best for them. One way we can demonstrate our love for others is by earnestly praying for their well-being. Whether the physically sick, those in mental anguish, the immunocompromised or those who are suffering economic hardship, one of our greatest acts of love is to petition God on their behalf. Make a list of those in your life who need to experience the goodness of God and pray for them daily. Further, consider praying for our elected officials, healthcare workers and community leaders who are faced with unprecedented challenges in navigating the effects of this pandemic.
While we won’t be meeting physically for the next month this doesn’t mean that we will cease being the church. If you need support in this season please don’t hesitate to reach out to us, you can call our team at 204.226.2324.