The pandemic has brought out the best in some people.
The nurse who, in spite of the long shifts, stays on to hold the hand of a COVID-19 patient and to be there with his family.
The teacher who when realizing that her virtual-learning student doesn’t have the book he needs, drives it to his house, and takes along a pack of rainbow gum as an added treat.
The veteran who has a milestone birthday, and a neighbor, knowing the veteran will be lonely, organizes a birthday car parade outside of the man’s house.
The friends who—when learning about kids who are young and will be left at home to maneuver virtual school while their parents are at work—take turns to be with the kids while they are learning.
The town that wants to recognize graduating seniors in spite of not having an in-person graduation ceremony, and pays to have each student’s photo placed on a banner that hangs on a lamp post down the main street of town.
The pandemic provides daily illustrations that we find our happiness and true meaning in our lives when we serve others.
I know that this should come as no surprise. But, somehow, each time I witness an example of this lesson through the lives of others, I have that “Oh yeah…!” experience.
The Bible speaks directly to this seeming contradiction—when we take our eyes off of ourselves, we find ourselves.
Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. Philippians 2:4 New Living Translation
Let no one seek his own good, but the good of his neighbor. 1 Corinthians: 10:24 ESV
We who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves.. Romans 15:1 ESV
Next, in reviewing how well-studied Christians have reflected on this subject, I turn to C.S. Lewis.
In The Problem of Pain, Lewis talks about God being self-giving, giving himself in the sacrifice of the cross.
He writes:
“In self-giving, if anywhere, we touch a rhythm not only of all creation but of all being. For the Eternal Word also gives Himself in sacrifice, and that not only on Calvary.”
It is no wonder that giving of ourselves brings meaning and pleasure. As C.S. Lewis notes, when we give of ourselves we “touch a rhythm” of all creation, of all being. We are in touch with the Holy Spirit Who resides within us. We reflect the Face of God.
Loving people is important in a pandemic. It is always important. It is the “rhythm of all creation—of all being”.
Find a way to dive into that rhythm today!