Sarah Yates

 “The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him; though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand.”  Psalm 37:23-24 

I think I found the period of lockdown easier than coming out of lockdown.  We have enjoyed benefits like having more family time, with Rob working from home and having more time to think and reflect on our priorities. However this time has also dealt us some harsh realities. Unfortunately the loss of Rob’s Aunty Catherine so young and quickly to cancer during the Covid period exacerbated a feeling of loss and isolation and the reality of entertaining/educating 2 small children can be both rewarding and exhausting as I am sure some of you can relate.

When in lockdown this somehow felt like a finite time with an end but whilst lockdown is easing, our day to day reality continues just with less security and certainty.  I feel responsible for educating my children about our “new normal” without making them fearful or risk adverse. Explaining social distancing to a 21 month old is impossible and adds restrictions. The foundations of our comfort and security have been tested. It can be easy to worry about the what ifs and it requires discipline to think only of today and not worry about tomorrow.

It is always at these times that I am so thankful for my faith. It is through these challenges that God still comforts and upholds us.  He has given me courage as we move out of lockdown. Recently Rob and I visited Rushmere Country Park where we were able to find a closeness and delight in God through nature.  Just at the right time in the right way God opened the door for us to see more friends and family. Just at the right time in the right way Asher turned to me and said “You know mummy God is always with us”. God is faithful, he does not let us fall but upholds us. 

Song: I hope you find this song uplifting as I have.

Prayer: For all those, like me, struggling to reconcile with our “new normal”. For all those facing challenges I pray that they would feel God’s strength and embrace upholding them. 

Prayer Request: Please pray for all those who are unwell or have family members who are unwell or have high risk factors for Covid. Ask God to protect them and provide comfort as we move out of lockdown and to help the NHS to provide treatment and support to all those in need, especially those whose treatment has been interrupted over the last few months.