“Never Alone”

SCRIPTURE

Draw near to God, and God will draw near to you. - James 4:8

REFLECTION

Today is a Thanksgiving unlike any most of us have probably ever had, and I hope ever will. Today many who would otherwise be traveling and gathering with family and friends to celebrate life’s blessings are staying put, gathering instead on screens to see the faces of their loved ones. This day that is usually filled with beloved fellowship is instead a rather isolated one.

For all the things we have to be thankful for today, and for a good many of us that list is still a long one despite the inconveniences of a pandemic that has ruined the lives of so many millions, this is still a bittersweet day because perhaps a great many of us are not together as we would hope or wish to be. I get that.

It is felt all the more because we have been so distanced from one another this year. We truly, truly miss one another and this separation is not easy. We aren’t meant to be this way.

Today, perhaps one thing we can do if we’re feeling the frustration of not being with all of those we’d normally be with is drawing a little closer to God and feeling God draw near to us. We are reminded in all sorts of ways through scripture, song, and prayer that we are never alone and perhaps that sentiment becomes trite after a time. Yet in these times, when we truly are apart from one another in so many profound ways, perhaps it is an invitation to remind ourselves of one of the Truths of our faith that James reminds us of.

If you’re feeling a little isolated today, take a moment to close your eyes and let God draw near. Be reminded that even when we’re distanced and isolated, we’re never ever alone. That’s something to be thankful for.

PRAYER

Eternal, Ever-Present God, thank you for always being with us - especially when we’re feeling alone.

Amen.

Peace,

Shawn