“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” John 13:34-35

When I sat down to write this devotion I first re-read the devotion I had written for Women’s Ministry last year. The central theme of that devotion was “connections” – to our family, our friends, our community, and our country and how these connections are central to our spiritual life. Little did any of us know what we were going to be facing in just a few short months.

During these unprecedented times we have had to be both innovative and creative to maintain these connections that bring us together as a community of faithful believers. Our church has been exceptional in guiding us in that area. With an abundance of help from technology we have been able to live-stream church on Sunday, Zoom meetings when needed, and virtually attend special classes. With social distancing many of us have continued to meet with our Grace Groups on a regular basis. The Pastors and staff have been busy checking in on many of those who live alone since loneliness seems to be one of the greatest psychological effects of this pandemic. Our church is also initiating a new Pen Pal program – again to keep us more connected. Thank you, thank you to all the people who make this ministry happen.

A blessing that has emerged from this pandemic is the way so many are reaching out to establish new relationships. Our neighborhood and so many others are making an effort to get to know one another. Since our initial isolation driveway coffees and Happy Hours – always outside and maintaining social distance – have become welcome events. It is such a wonderful way to nurture, commiserate, and explore new ideas and hopefully one that will continue long into the future.

The friendship of the women in my life has lifted my spirits on difficult days. Their encouragement, wisdom, support and laughter has restored my soul. Some days when it is hard to see the blessings surrounding us we only have to look up, and as Pastor Michelle reminded us in her sermon on Sunday…we are not alone.

Dear and gracious God, we are so grateful for all the connections we make. Please hear us as we pray ceaselessly and serve those who are suffering so much. Amen.

Written by Mary Wobig

This month’s devotion was written by Mary Wobig. Mary has been a member of the Women’s Ministry Team almost since the beginning and misses the camaraderie and planning of women’s events. During the quarantine she keeps busy READING, READING, READING and attempting to clean those pesky drawers and closets! She is very anxious to see her Sheridan family in-person as the church regathers.