March Madness 2020

" And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose." Romans 8:28

March Madness... it's still on, and it's more widespread than ever.  It's just not the normal events/activities we experience. March Madness 2020 is about Covid-19, social distancing, and TP.   From sporting events, to Spring Break trips, to school programs/graduations and routine shopping, life has stopped or at best taken a dramatic turn in ways we never expected, prepared or desired.  

Yet, even though it's not what we want, not all is horrible.  Not all activities have stopped.  Coming back from a sparsely stocked grocery store yesterday, my neighborhood had the look and feel of a Andy Griffith Show.  There were people strolling down the street with dogs and strollers and children, others playing ball in the yard or doing yard work... all at respectable distances, mind you.  In the 25+ years i've lived in this neighborhood, i've never seen this many people out of their houses at one time!  And many faces were completely new to me.  I guess, i (and others), have been shut up in our houses and worlds too long to notice each other.  I kinda felt like Aunt Bea coming down the road and waving to my old and newfound neighbors... i got the urge to whip up  some brownies and leave them on their doorsteps, with a note containing my phone number, if help is needed.  

Maybe instead of watching sport stars make unbelievable plays, score record-breaking points and underdogs make exciting comebacks, maybe March Madness 2020 is about something much more.  Maybe it's about sacrifice, saneness, support and survival where we are the participants/STARS in the game of life.  It is my prayer when this season ends, we all are winners as we return to our regular season... refreshed and renewed and with a new appreciation and respect of this life of ours from God and for our neighbors.

Father, we are in strange dark waters. We pray for your guidance, wisdom and peace in navigating safely in the days ahead.  Open our eyes and heart to the needs of those around us.  May we be mindful of safe opportunities to grow our compassion and care for others.  We love You, Father, and we trust You are still in control, especially now. Help us to follow Your whispering leads.

"Jesus loves me this i know"... and that alone makes a world of difference. 

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it,
veneal