Navigating all the news regarding COVID-19, and making the right choice—practicing social distancing for the love of our families and neighbors—comes with a unique strain. Even when we do the right thing, it doesn't always feel right or easy.

We will certainly miss gathering with one another in the ways we've grown accustomed to over the next few weeks. Let's remember two important things, and fight to live faithfully in the tension between them.

1) The church is a particular people, not any particular place

2) This season in our communal and national life has the potential to cause a great deal of loneliness, and to only further struggles for those of us who wrestle with depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues.

There is no good time to be isolated. It's not what we were made for. Thankfully, however, we live in a time of great technological tools. And we can use the creativity we have to foster community even from different locations. Here are just a few ideas:

FaceTime or Skype with your Fight Club or DNA groups, FaceTime or Skype to hold mini-MCs or times of prayer and devotions. Use other apps like Marco Polo, texting or good old fashioned phone calls (I know, not my strong suit either) to check in on one another and update each other on how you're doing. As you talk with one another, be sure to ask not only about the physical realities we're facing but also about the spiritual and emotional toll this is taking on your brothers and sisters. Families and married couples, be especially sure to check in on your single brothers and sisters. Your kids might be driving you up the wall in this time of increased family togetherness, but many people are longing to have someone to be sequestered with.

Look also for ways to meet the needs of your church family and your neighbors. As you go on grocery runs, ask Karis friends or your neighbors what they might need and leave the items at their doorstep. Help support those you know are struggling by sending them a financial boost via Venmo or PayPal. Participate in your neighborhood association's Facebook group (if it has one) and ask how you can help others there. We can be the church to each other, and our city, even in a time like this. Perhaps especially in a time like this.

While we are canceling Sunday gatherings and MC meetings, we can't prohibit smaller gatherings of a few people. But be smart. See what needs you can meet in other ways first. And if you do get together, be very thoughtful about how and where. The other day, I saw a great picture on social media of friends going on a trail walk together, yet practicing their six feet of distance. We just need to be creative these days.

Take heart. Love one another. Don't grow weary in doing good—even if it's a little harder right now. The smiles, high-fives, and hugs we'll share when the imminent danger has passed will be all the sweeter.

---Pastor Aarik