About a week ago, I had to run to Walmart to get some of the basics – we were needing milk, eggs, and bread – and I saw a good amount of people doing the same kind of thing. But, I noticed that people were very respectful of distance. Everyone was steering clear of each other and maintaining the recommended amount of social distance. I found the things I needed and headed back to the car. On the way out, I noticed a father and son. It was apparent that they had just purchased a new bike – the price sheet was still on it and the son was riding it out to the car. Now the father had a hand on the bike so that his son wasn’t just riding his bike in the midst of parking lot traffic, but rather right beside his father as the father walked along. The boy’s face was priceless. I could tell by his eyes and his smile that he was already imagining himself in some Tour de France race or mountain trail adventure.
The young boy’s excitement brought a smile to my face as well. I was so thankful that I got to see him on his new bike. I had almost missed it – I was in a hurry to get in and out of the store, I was preoccupied with maintaining social distance from everyone, and I had been looking at my phone to check my messages. But just at the right moment I looked up and caught sight of it.
It is important that in these days of a pandemic, we look for joy. We must take seriously the health guidelines of washing our hands, not touching our faces, and keeping apart from one another. It is good for us to pray for a vaccine while we pray for those who have been afflicted by the disease. But while we address all the serious work brought on by the virus, we must also be intentional to look for joy. Make time each day to look for joy and give thanks. Refresh your soul with the reminders of God’s presence in the world. We will get through this – together. Keep your eyes open for glimpses of joy and goodness in the world!
