Sunflowers and toilet paper
Trader Joe’s sunflowers
Throughout this whole virus event, I have had a solid peace. In my traveling through airports. In ministry and even with my several autoimmunes.
But as Joe and I went shopping yesterday, just to get a few groceries, I started feeling the anxiety of the atmosphere.
Fear started gripping me in the sheer frenzy of it all. (I just wanted my riced cauliflower, coffee and cream)
Then I felt angry. Angry because I felt forced to feel frantic. Food and supplies were flying off shelves in record speed and I started feeling bullied by fear.
(Good thing I wrote a book about this very thing) #Unafraid
I had to keep reminding myself “do not fear, there is nothing to fear. Do not lean into the hysteria.”
As Joe was loading the car with our groceries, I went to return the cart. And on a impulse, bought a bouquet of sunflowers 🌻. Just For me. For joy. For a simple reminder; Jesus sits on the throne. He is ever watching. I am more valued than those cheery little flowers and more precious than a sparrow. I dwell in the shadow of the Almighty’s wings. He is my hiding place. He is in my tomorrows.
I felt my peace return with that little bundle of sunflowers. We finished our shopping being sure to get extra coffee and cream, you know; Incase they became as popular as toilet paper.
Now hear me: It’s ok to prepare but it is not ok to feel afraid of the days ahead. It’s ok to buy toilet paper. It’s not ok to panic and hoard. (My opinion. You don’t have to agree)
On with my story.
Today the power was out in our area for nearly 8 hours. We ran the generator. Took coffee to our neighbors. (You know, because we stocked up) Did a few projects. Watched movies. Joe ran back to the store and finished grocery shopping and bought another pound of coffee (priorities) And peace ruled an reigned in our heart and home (plus we didn’t watch any news. Try it. It helps)
Now, I absolutely respect those who have faithfully prepared. I understand where you’re coming from. I do. And don’t think my pantry is only filled with coffee beans. There’s a few pounds of navy and kidney beans in there as well. And we have toilet paper. (If you need some, we can meet in an ally somewhere) and I believe in being responsible in not spreading this booger of a virus. Protecting the most vulnerable (I am considered one of those) washing our hands. (I say the abc’s twice for good measure)
So why am I rambling on like so?
Because I am certain Jesus is in control. I’m certain he cares for each and everyone one of us. And I am certain, in the unknown, he goes before us and splits seas. Creates streams in deserts. Walks in fires. Makes crooked places straight. Strolls across waves. Protects, heals and strengthens.
If Jesus says “To not fear. To not be anxious. To not be dismayed” then who am I to argue with the King of Kings?!
Share your peace along with your coffee and TP.
The world MUST see the church respond in faith and hope. React in love. Holding onto peace. And resolved to NOT be shaken! Not hiding but running towards the front lines. First responders of faith. Purposing peace.
“Don’t let people pull you into their storms. Pull them into your peace”
– Kimberly Jones
Do not be bullied by fear! It’s a liar! It’s a thief of peace! Let your faith rise up. Stir up your confidence!! Remind your soul who you believe in.
“If you falter in a time of trouble, how small is your strength!”
Proverbs 24:10 NIV
“Fear not [there is nothing to fear], for I am with you; do not look around you in terror and be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen and harden you to difficulties, yes, I will help you; yes, I will hold you up and retain you with My [victorious] right hand of rightness and justice. [Acts 18:10.]”
Isaiah 41:10 AMPC
“Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” Surely he will save you from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence.”
Psalms 91:1-3 NIV