What we see is temporary; what we do not see is eternal

In this year of so many surprises and challenges, this verse from Corinthians seems particularly applicable:

While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen [are] temporal; but the things which are not seen [are] eternal. – Corinthians 4:18

Yes, it’s still 2020. We are still in the midst of a tumultuous time, and there still isn’t much certainty in the world.

Even though it has been far from predictable, this year HAS been a year of firsts. Professional baseball teams play in empty stadiums, cheered on by cardboard fans and a canned soundtrack; six-year-olds attend school in the living room; weekly meetings, book clubs, and happy hours take place via Zoom; doctor appointments are virtual; and of course, everyone wears a mask every day, not just on Halloween.

Now we are in the middle of fall, heading toward winter, and the virus is still going strong. And just when we think COVID-19 is out of surprises, it strikes the leader of our country, and we see a “third wave” of cases.

But remember: when everything seems uncertain, irregular, unpredictable…God remains certain. God doesn’t contract deadly viruses or get caught up in civil unrest. He cannot be quarantined. He will never be voted out of office or be part of an undignified debate.

God is everywhere, at all times and with no exceptions. We can’t see him literally, but we can see him in uncountable acts of kindness. We see him in neighbors helping neighbors regardless of their political views, how they look, or what they believe. We see him in a rainbow over a home devastated by a storm. We see him in the face of our youngest students, who continue to model the flexibility that maintains laughter and confidence.

Hold tight to your faith. It is here, it is strong, it is certain. And consider: how can you help others see God? How can you emulate Jesus in your thoughts and your actions? How can you use your faith to remain strong and help others?Fear thou not; for I [am] with thee: be not dismayed; for I [am] thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness. – Isaiah 41:10