This is certainly an unprecedented time marked by fear, loss, the unknown, and undeniably, isolation. The end of Spring Semester 2020 is not filled with what once felt like foregone conclusions: face-to-face classes, sunny afternoons in Johnson Commons, athletic events, and graduation, to name a few. Understandably, these losses have caused grief for our community. It is important to acknowledge pain that accompanies the what-should-have-been. At the same time, though, how might we best use this season - into which we’ve all been thrusted - as stewards of God’s Kingdom? What might our hearts and subsequently, our community look like if we shepherd well ourselves and each other? One thing is for sure: no crisis can destroy our relationships with God. “Nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:38
Here are some suggestions for creating spiritual patterns to prosper during this season of quarantine:
- Read the Word
- “For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.” Romans 15:4
- Where we fix the our hearts gives way to who we are becoming; our hopes and fears each will speak to what we spend time beholding.
- Start and/or end the day by reading the Word.
- Create Rhythms of Prayer
- “Devote yourselves to prayer.” Colossians 4:2
- Stopping at various times throughout the day to pray helps break up the potential monotonous day, as well as returns us to our rest. Prayer ideas:
- Every even hour to begin the hour (ex. 8 a.m, 10 a.m, 12 p.m…)
- Prayer for the safety of the world whenever you wash your hands
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- “Commune” Safely
- “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” Hebrews 10:24-25
- While it is vital to the safety of ourselves and others that we practice social distancing, we are still created for connection. Consider scheduling a weekly Zoom call or FaceTime with a group of friends to check in on each other, share prayer requests, and see one another’s faces.
- The WU Campus Ministry team is hosting multiple weekly Zoom hangouts- Sundays from 8-9 pm, and Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11 a.m.
- Play Worship Music
- “I will sing unto the LORD as long as I live: I will sing praise to my God” Psalm 104:33
- Listen to (and sing along!) uplifting and encouraging music throughout your day.
- Spotify Playlists:
- Do Not Fear
- Hold Hope
- Sang on Sunday
- Bethel Music: Songs of Peace
- Song Suggestions:
Wellness Resources
Click below to download the complete wellness guide, developed by Waynesburg University's Pathways Center team. This guide includes resources for mental, spiritual and physical wellness, as well as suggestions for taking a break.
