“Sticking Together” by Justin March

My friends, these have
been some trying times.  The last several months have been filled with
social unrest, political upheaval, and virus fears.  Our opinions around
such heavy subjects have made many take sides, and the “us versus
them” mentality has become prominent.  The lines between good and
evil have become blurry, and the media has filled our minds with scare tactics
and news that is not always true.  And many of us have been left searching
for a leader that will stand up, take charge, and lead us out of the
depression, hatred, and misery these last several months have prescribed.

Yes, these have been
some trying times.  But as I look back, and think about all the moments
that tried to tear us apart, I find myself proud of the resiliency God’s people
showed through these dire times.  I remember the Zoom calls that kept
people connected.  I remember the outdoor meetings where we could keep
social distanced and safe.  I remember the book studies that raised awareness,
fed our need to learn, and kept us grounded.  I remember the virtual
church services where I could still hear the messages I needed to get me
through the week.  And I remember all the phone calls, text messages, and
emails I received that reminded me to keep my head up and push forward.

We stuck
together.

The evils of the world
did their best to separate us, but we persevered.  Our families became
stronger, our friendships became important, and our time with God became
essential.  We slowed down and spent more time loving those close to
us.  We were hungry for connection, and the extra down time allowed us to
delve into the scriptures together and enrich our understandings of God’s
messages.  And as the world did everything it could to knock us down, we
brought our community to others, so that ALL could know how much they were
loved and appreciated.

As we slowly escape
some of the hardships we have endured, these are the lessons I want us to
remember.  Love over hate.  Community over division.  Peace over
violence.  Acceptance over judgement.  The pandemic, the social
unrest, and the political upheavals have done everything they can to drive us
apart.  But, when we stick together, when we show forgiveness and grace,
and when we live our lives with the ideals God has put before us, nothing can
keep us apart.  The world is going to need us to show God’s love, now more
than ever, and as we rise from the ashes of this broken world, let’s remember
to stick together so all that are lost may find their paths that lead them to
Him!