What Was Normal, Is No More
Grace Andrews of Independence, MO, USA
When you are disturbed, do not sin; ponder it on your beds, and be silent. (Selah) Offer right sacrifices, and put your trust in the Lord. There are many who say, “O that we might see some good! Let the light of your face shine on us, O Lord!” You have put gladness in my heart more than when their grain and wine abound. I will both lie down and sleep in peace; for you alone, O Lord, make me lie down in safety. -Psalm 4:4-8
We watched the horror of war on the black and white newsreel at the theater, searching for faces of loved ones. In those days, we paid 25 cents apiece to see two features, the news and a cartoon. We darkened windows at night to prevent any light shining through that might cause our home to be a target of violence. S & H Green Stamps and Blue Chip Stamps were coveted items. Our little corner grocery store had rationed items. So many other memories of that time and place. Do I want to go back to that “normal”?
In the midst of all of this there were happy moments. In our tiny house, as a child I remember playing Monopoly till midnight on New Year\’s Eve. Then we quietly welcomed the new year in with prayer and ice cream (no fireworks). We experimented with cooking and baking, gathering vegetables from the garden and milk from the neighbor\’s cow. We played Olie-Olie-Oxen-free, Hide and Seek, and rode bikes.
The years rolled by, and we tried valiantly to make ends meet from paycheck to paycheck, holding carefully to our employment. We worked to keep some semblance of order in our home and ensure that our children were nourished, warm, and happy, making do with supplies we had on hand. We darned socks late at night. We hung clothes out on the line-then rushed them in when it began to rain. Do I want to go back to that “normal”?
We experienced our ultimate joy as our children accepted baptism. We celebrated birthdays and Christmas. We enjoyed family outings-a road trip to the ocean, collecting shells, walking on the beach, feeling the sand between our toes. Sometimes we simply drove the short distance to the airport to watch the planes fly in and out. We shared our children’s accomplishments in learning and school activities. After packing up and going to family camp with church friends, we sang in the car, watched awesome sunrises and sunsets, made s\’mores on an open campfire. We sat in church, savoring the closeness of the congregation.
So, what is this “normal” that so many seem to wish to return to? Does it include all or just part of the above? Our new normal will likely be nothing like the “old days.” But as in days gone by, with courage and God’s help, we will be strong. We’ll accept a new normal, and that isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Look to the future-do not grieve for the past. In changing our thinking, we are sure to find more joys than we can hold in our hearts.
Prayer Phrase
“Light dawns on a weary world.” CCS 240
Spiritual Practice
The Light of God
Epiphany invites us to focus on the light of God. Close your eyes and draw your attention to your breath. As you breathe gently in and out, reflect on the statement, “The light of God is in all things.” The light has a bright, soft beauty and radiates God’s healing love. The light of God reaches you and permeates you with a deep sense of peace. Rest in the light as it surrounds and fills you. Thank God that you live in God’s light and it lives in you.
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.
