We’re in a period of waiting.
Schools are closed. Business is on hold. Everyday life as we knew it has ceased to exist in just a few short weeks. It all happened so fast.
I can imagine that Jesus’ disciples would be able to relate well with our current situation.
Three days. That’s how long I’d been wearing the same sweatshirt. Of course I changed the tee underneath, I mean, I’m not a total grub—yet. But. I might be in the danger zone.
Once again, the world is experiencing a pandemic. Only this time it’s our turn to encounter travel bans, cancelled events, stockpiling, and waves of uncertainty.
The response has been quite diverse. Some are waking up to a reality that has been looming for months. Others are running a “do not fear” campaign exhorting those who are anxious. Still, some are promoting conspiracy theories, dismissing preventative action, or downplaying Covid-19 as “just the flu”.
But for my family the threat is very real. I am one of those in the “at risk” category. As one who is immunocompromised, my actions could literally be the difference between health and hospitalization.
As a ten-year-old, I was too young to understand the reasons for my parents' divorce, so it was a very confusing and complicated time for me.
Entering adolescence would have been hard enough already, but on top of that, due to the divorce I moved around a lot and my new family relationships were complicated. I struggled with insecurity, because I wrestled with where I had come from and where I was going.
Thank you to the over 500 women who attended Encounter: A Weekend for Women in February! While we know that Lisa-Jo Baker’s stories and encouragement in friendship are still fresh in your mind, we hope everything learned at Encounter helps cultivate friendships for years to come.
Here are a few reflections from women who attended Encounter 2020:
