ONE OR BOTH?

Another weekend arrives with the eager expectation of looking for something to do. Normally, I’m neck-deep with the pressure and concern of Easter carnivals and Holy Week Services. I feel like I’m supposed to be super-busy, but not this year. This year, I’m like most of the population with an overabundance of time on my hands. So, I’m creating lots of things to do (like writing blogs). In the process, I’ve learned something.

For those of us who aren’t able to work right now, whether because of unemployment or employment restrictions, being productive is still important. In fact, it’s probably more important now for our mental and emotional health. As a result, we might consider taking a break from the current monotony by actually finding a way to be productive at something (Playing teacher for the kids is not your fulfillment - You need something for YOU!).

Whether working in the yard, completing projects inside our home, painting pictures, knitting, puzzles, or building with Lego’s, staying productive allows us to achieve a sense of pride and value. Working at something gives us pride in what we can accomplish versus the sense of devalue that arises from what we can’t accomplish. Does that make sense? It’s very easy to look around and think, “I have nothing to (or nothing I can) do.” In some sense, that may be true. However, it doesn’t have to define our present.

Each of us has something we can accomplish, including plenty of things we can do for other people. For instance, look around your neighborhood. Does someone’s lawn look unattended? It could look like that because they’re experiencing health, financial, family, or self-worth challenges that are prohibiting them from a simple lawn cut. Consider cutting their lawn for them.

Maybe we’re aware of a family whose current bread-winner is a healthcare worker. Do they have needs? Chances are that the family is extra-careful right now and they may not feel like they can get out at all for fear of unknowingly spreading the virus. Call them and check in with them. Do they have what they need? Is there an errand that could help?

Likewise, consider those who are already sick or have immune-deficiencies. You can be sure that they aren’t getting out in the current environment, and neither are their family members who are in direct, physical contact with them. Is there something this person or their family needs?

We can be productive during this Pandemic. We can do something to help our own self-worth, our family and friends, and our community. Whatever it is, the important thing is to find something. We honor God when we care for the temple (ourselves). We also honor God when we care for others. Which will it be this weekend - one or both?

“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” (Colossians 3:17, NIV).