The Answer, my friends. . . .


Because forgiveness is like this: a room can be dank because you have closed the windows, 
you’ve closed the curtains. But the sun is shining outside, and the air is fresh outside. 
In order to get that fresh air, you have to get up and open the window and draw the curtains apart. 
–Desmond Tutu


It seems like this self-isolation thing has been going on for a very, very long time, doesn’t it? In Ohio, it officially started March 23. About six weeks ago.

Now, people are getting antsy. Let us out, they say. It’s my constitutional right to go wherever I want, to shop and eat out and go to movies! In some states, the protests are crazy wild!

But here’s the deal:

We have always been allowed to leave our houses. It’s not like we are eight and Dad has confined us to our bedroom.

Is it time to head to the nearest bar and get together for several rounds with friends? Nope. Not yet. If you like those friends as much as you say, you’ll miss them a while longer.

But—is it time to get out? Take a walk? Let the wind blow through your long, unkempt locks? Yes! In fact, it is way past time! As my mother would say: Go out and run! Blow the stink off! Come back when you’re in a better mood. . . .

Adam did it. Moses did it. Jesus, and Peter, and Paul—they all got out and walked, or worked their gardens, or took time away to fish. They knew their mental health needed the break—the distance from people to reconnect with the Divine. Go!

Right now! Stop reading and take a break. Breathe. . . .


Monday First thing in the morning, stand at a window and watch the world wake up for a few minutes. Open the window and listen for sounds of rebirth.) Breathe. Acts 7:55-60

Tuesday Take a walk outside today. Is it breezy? How does the sun (or rain) feel on your face? What about weather do you love—and what, not so much? Psalm 31:1-5

Wednesday What can you do while you’re self-isolating to help those in need of basic shelter or food in your community? Consider volunteering or making a donation. Psalm 31:15-16

Thursday Pause today and meditate on how the Spirit has worked in or through your life, whether through big ways or small. Give thanks. 1 Peter 2:2-10
Friday As we begin a new month on the calendar, consider making a mini-resolution, as you may have done in January. Make a pledge to keep just for 31 days. Tell someone who will (lovingly) hold you accountable. John 14:1-4

Saturday As you pray for yourself today, consider inviting the Spirit to refresh your soul, breathe new life into your spirit or otherwise make her presence known. Give thanks and rest. John 14:5-9

Sunday Focus today simply on worship. How is it with your soul? Give God your reverent attention and praise. John 14:10-14

A year is a long time to live without the human contact of loved ones, fresh air, and gravity, 
to name a few.  –Astronaut Scott Kelly

Stay home. Stay safe. Because a year would be a long, long time, 
but the seeming eternity of losing a loved one is even longer.

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