After a couple of tours of isolation, once for flying overseas and once for contracting the virus that I tried my best to avoid for the last two years, it is easy to see why we’re designed to do life in community. I dislike shopping for food online, everything is delivered in unfamiliar brands, sizes or altogether left out of our order. I dislike these same eight rooms for twenty-four hours a day. I dislike the lack of commute, with kids requesting tunes from Encanto to Baby Shark. I dislike doing schoolwork from the home office. I miss the beach, the coffee shop, my church and GCC.

Then I see the news from the comfort of my couch, seeing people displaced from their homes all the way down the east coast. People risking their lives to save others from the floods. Some are rescued by boat, jet ski or kayak others by helicopter. There have been some real heroes that have emerged. Then I look further abroad to the Ukraine where people are huddled together in underground stations as explosions happen overhead. I see still more people risking their lives to save their family, their home and their country. Men and women fighting for their independence.

These images both from our great southern land and abroad are gut-wrenching. I’m choosing to pray without ceasing for these people that have lost their homes, family members or city. I’m reminded I have a home that I’m fortunate enough to isolate in. Some of the heroes in my story are those that bring round’ cinnamon scrolls, dinner, shoot us a text or give me buzz.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 says,
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

Sometimes it’s hard to rejoice or give thanks, that’s why the community’s support is so especially vital. Would you join me in praying for Ukraine and for all the people who lost something in these floods? In times like these don’t underestimate the value of checking in with your neighbours, classmates or colleagues.

If you’re a student or family in isolation and need mental/emotional/social support don’t hesitate to email the pastoral team at [email protected]. I work with a group of legends who want to help.

Syd Moore, College Pastor