This week, we are heading toward whatever our new normal will look like. As I have thought about our isolation over the last few weeks, I thought about what Mother’s Day was going to look like. Some of us do not live close enough to our mothers to be able to see them on Mother’s Day – but for many who live near, it is going to be difficult not to take them out for lunch or spend the day with them. It has been hard to see people visiting their loved ones through the windows at nursing homes or to hear stories about grandparents seeing their grandchildren, but not being able to give them a hug. All of these limits raise the question, “What will it be like when churches are able to gather again to worship in person?”

When we talk about gathering together to worship but still practicing social distancing, we must consider what is most valuable as we gather in worship. My wife Karen and I were talking about our church and how to take these steps, and Karen said that “it would be hard to gather to worship and to not be able to interact with each other with hugs or handshakes.” Our pastor has been doing small group gatherings on Zoom for our people to have face-to face interaction. In fact, many churches who have small groups have encouraged them to meet via Zoom or another internet format. I think this crisis has opened our eyes to the value of the church and our fellowshipping together.

I pray that we hold onto that lesson and show our love and appreciation for our brothers and sisters in Christ. We should show our gratitude to our pastors for their dedication to their congregations and how they have stepped up to modify worship, ministry and service in our current environment. Take time today to praise God for your blessings, family and God’s peace during these times!