Who would have thought we’d be here during Lent in 2020? It sure wasn’t on my vision board for this year. But like most curve balls I can’t stop the pitch I can only play what’s thrown. So with that in mind let me offer these important steps for caregiving professions like mine. It’s never easy to face a crisis like a pandemic—undoubtedly it becomes more complicated when one is tasked with assisting in and delivering care. This list is not meant to be exhaustive, but I do hope it will get you on the right path.
Don’t be a martyr. We need you and your gifts for this very moment. To be careless in this instance would be a sad reality for all involved. Stay the course and keep the faith.
Speaking of faith be sure to tend to yours. If you are like me and tasked with caring for the faith of others these moments leave you in the refrigerator of doubt. But I implore you to take consolation in the fact the narrative of Scripture is full of skeptics and doubters. They found their place into the family of God and you will too.
Be sure to watch after the health and well-being of your family. In some instances like this one it could be easy to neglect your immediate family unit for the sake of the task at hand. Keep in mind you will not operate at your best if your family is suffering.
Learn to cancel and say no—and be sure to be kind in doing so. Set a consistent ethic for how you handle these situations. Don’t worry about the tension it could cause be assured by the safety it will ensure.
God will be present even if we aren’t. So take care of you if you fall ill. Don’t hurt others trying to be a savior.
Walk your fury friend if you need to get fresh air. The weather has been wonderful here and if officials say you can be outside enjoy that with those you love most—both four legged and two legged.
Finally… and most importantly… love God and wash your hands.
I admonish you to remember the benediction I give ever Sunday: “Life is short and we have too little time to gladden the hearts of those that we meet along the way. So be swift to love and make haste to be kind. And the blessing of God almighty—the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit be with you and remain with you forever. Amen.”