Jesus said, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.” – John 10:10 (NRSV)
Pandemic-related inertia is a real condition that touches us all. Things we used to enjoy doing—important things, fun things, silly things, life-giving things—require more energy and commitment than we think we have.
I see it in myself: “Why do a deep clean of the house if no one is coming over?” I see it in my church: “Why go to the trouble of worshipping in person when I can worship online?” I see it in the general malaise that shrouds everything: “Why bother?” I see it in my community: “Organizing is so much work!”
I get it. Truly, I do. But I also want to name it for what it is.
Pandemic-related inertia is a thief. It robs us of the very fullness of life Jesus wants for us. It is killing our hope and destroying our communities. And these are not mere metaphors.
Locally owned businesses have gone under. Churches have closed and ministries have ceased operations. The organizers of the decades-old Pride festival where I live have announced that it won’t be happening this year. It’s too much work, they said, as if it hasn’t always generated life-saving joy.
I don’t have easy answers, just a longing for abundant life. Not the way things used to be, but better. Will you join me in resisting that which steals our joy?
Prayer
Fount of Blessing, may my desire for life be so strong that, by your grace, it will deliver me from the desire to go back to bed.
