April 2020
Reflections of God's Goodness
I hardly know where to begin. Life has changed. Many of us are still in self-imposed social distancing or quarantine because of the COVID-19 virus.
Lent? The usual help we count on to keep us focused on prayer, fasting and almsgiving is missing. Worst of all, our churches are closed.
Our God, however, continues to love us, to hold us close and remind us that He promises to be with us and can bring good out of every bad thing. Our job is to look for the good. To keep our eyes focused on God and our hearts free of fear and anger and most of all care for one another.
"The Lod is our stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. Those who know your name trust in you; you never forsake those who seek you, Lord."
As always, I encourage you to look for the blessings in this time. Look also for the dangers. Guard against things like selfishness, laziness, self-indulgence, or boredom. During this time let technology connect us through: text messages, phone calls to the elderly in our families, encouragement to young parents juggling jobs along with keeping children up to date with school assigments. Use FaceTime to connect us with the people we miss seeing the most!
Our churches are using technology to keep us close, to pray with us and keep us connected to one another. We are being encouraged to pray for the world, for our families and friends, for nurses and doctors, first responders and our leaders. Someone suggested that we say the Our Father as we wash our hands, lifting this whole situation to the Lord. Perhaps we will all develop a few good habits that will last long after the virus is gone.
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, on your own intelligence do not rely; In all your ways be mindful of him, and he will make straight your paths. Do not be wise in your own eyes, fear the Lord and turn away from evil. This will mean health for your flesh and vigor for your bones."
As we journey toward the Easter feast, let us prepare ourselves to celebrate our redemption. We can use the Scriptures to join our Lord at the Last Supper on Holy Thursday, and walk the lonely road to Golgatha with Jesus on Good Friday. Best of all, Resurrection happens no matter where we are, and "Alleluia" is still our song. "I am the resurrection and the life; whoever believes in me, even if he dies, will live,..." John 11:25
Be assured you are continually in my prayers and those of our Sisters. "May the God of home fill you with all joy and peace in believing..." Romans 15:13.
May your Easter be filled with joy.
Blessings,
Sister Mary Ann Barnhorn, SNDdeN
"I command you; be strong and steadfast! Do not fear nor be dismayed, for the Lord, your God, is with you wherever you go."
