Be still and Know

Last week I was on vacation.  It was the ultimate staycation, I suppose, because I stayed home the whole time.  I had lofty goals of cleaning and organizing my closet, reading books for fun, catching up on tv shows, going for walks every day, and many more fun activities.  I didn’t do any of that.  Instead, I spent my time resting.  Sometimes I just sat and stared at the pond across the street.  An egret moved in, so that was captivating.  I helped the girls with their elearning.  I napped. I felt so guilty throughout the week for not accomplishing anything. 

Luckily, Marty is the perfect partner for me.  He was working, and kept telling me that it was ok that I was doing nothing.  I used to be a good “be-er” and now I am a good “do-er.”  I tried to lean into being, and focus on Psalm 46:10, “Be still and know that I am God.”   That Psalm begins, “God is our refuge and our strength, a very present help in trouble.”  God is with us. 

This pandemic is such a weird time for all of us.  Some have been furloughed or laid off.  Some are trying to work to work from home and parent.  Some are so tired of virtual meetings.  Some need other people and are missing hugs and family.  Some are lonely.  Some are still showing up at work every day.  Some are fearful.  Some are grieving.  Some are sick.  Some are bored.  Some are afraid to admit that they are enjoying being at home. 

I don’t know who needs to hear this today, but it is ok to just be.  It is ok to feel however you feel.  God is with us, and wants us to “be still and know” that God is here.  In those trying moments, look to God, our “refuge and strength.”  You are a beloved child of God whether you accomplish anything or just sit all day.  You are a beloved child of God whether you stay home or whether you are an essential worker that has to work to serve others.  You are a beloved child of God whether you are employed, furloughed, laid off, retired, a homemaker, or otherwise.  You  are a beloved child of God whether you are able to be productive or not.  Be still and know that God is God, and God loves you.