By: Rev. Gerald D. Adams
Something For Sunday
Huh? Let me explain. Robin Roberts on Good Morning America, Monday 16, 2020 in an interview that concerned combating stress and anxiety in connection with COVID-19, made a statement that struck a note with me and gave me a cause to pause. She said rather than social distancing a better term might be physical distancing. As I wrestled with myself in the early hours of Tuesday morning, I agreed. Thus, physical distancing – absolutely; social distancing – absolutely not.
In light of the best and changing information to date regarding COVID-19, physical distancing is an absolute necessity. There is no getting around it. Six feet might not be enough but it is a good start. It allows us the chance to make an adequate evaluation of the immediate circumstance with which we may be faced. The universal nature of COVID-19 calls for a universal response. Physical distancing is a part of that response. Along with the lack of information, the changing information, and the misinformation surrounding COVID-19 other conditions that are not physical but emotional are birthed. Anxiety and stress are on the increase. People are making themselves sick with worry and doubt as they attempt to sort through this bombardment of information, true or false, with which we are confronted. Social distancing does not quell or comfort, thus social distancing – absolutely not.
When we think of social as an adjective we relate it to society, its organization, or hierarchy as well as the need for companionship; suited to living in communities. Distancing only causes a rather crass society to harden. We do not need to move away from each other but to realize the strength that comes from the knowledge that we are all in this together. As such, we must pull together and show genuine love and concern for each other.
The question raised by Cain in the book of the beginnings, Genesis chapter 4, after he kills Abel his brother and is confronted by God, “Am I my brother’s keeper?,” speaks to the need for social relating. From Genesis to Revelations, the Bible insists on our need to be in righteous relationship one with the other. We must genuinely care. Our care must be expressed. Rather than social distancing, we must find creative ways to manifest our loving concern which will serve to relieve anxiety, doubt and stress. No need to worry but the need to trust and hope based upon our belief in and testimony of God’s protective presence, provision and answered prayers and promises.
A caring phone call, a social media connection, a Marco Polo encounter, any sharing that is relational will help to stem the tide of loneliness and make the COVID-19 journey easier to bear. Share the former things that have made us who were once no people, now the people of God. Rejoice: living he loved me, dying he saved me, buried he carried my sins far away. Risen he justified, freed me forever, one day he’s coming back, glorious day. But until then our hope is built on nothing less than Jesus blood and righteousness, we dare not trust the sweetest frame but wholly lean on Jesus name. On Christ the solid rock we stand, all other ground is sinking sand. Physical distancing – Absolutely! Social distancing – Absolutely not!
