Reflections

A microwave mindset.  I think of our culture in this image.  We want instant.  We pop something in the microwave, let it heat for 2-5 minutes, take it out and consume it.  We have a tendency to want everything like that.
We want answers that are quick and easy.  Follow these simple steps and it is done.
We have seen this with many issues in the Church.  We have a problem and want someone to fix it - Thursday!
(History would tell us it takes about 500 years for something to unfold in the Church, but that is another matter.)
Caronavirus.  Covid-19.  Stay-at-Home orders.  Social distancing. 
I stopped shaking hands March 8.  We stopped gathering for worship March 15.  We have been staying in so we do not contribute to the spread of the virus, for about a week. 
Already people are saying, are we done yet?  Hurry up.  Let's get back to normal - whatever that is.
We are victims of our microwave thinking.
Here is how it looks to me.  The coronavirus spreads rapidly.  We are at the front end (sorry, it is not almost over) of the spread.  Cases are multiplying. 
Then the virus slows.  There is still an increase but it is more like addition than multiplication.  Our intent now is to actually lengthen the time we practice social distancing and extraordinary measures.  We will still add cases of Covid-19, but they will be spread out and not as culturally devastating.  During this period the peak will come. 
Then we will witness a decline in the number of new infections.
Then we will be learning and discovering how to recognize the keys that will lead to re-engagement. 
Basically, we are in this for the long haul.  Don't think, "back to normal by Easter."  Don't focus on starting baseball season the middle of May.  This is going to take time.
Just writing that makes me pause.  I am part of the microwave culture.  Hurry up.  Fix it now.
Maybe Jesus will give us another perspective.  In Matthew 13:31-33, Jesus tells a couple of parables to illustrate the coming of the kingdom of God. 
First, is the parable of the mustard seed.  It starts very small.  Over time it grows to fullness.  It provides a place to nest.
Second, he speaks of leaven that works its way through flour until the whole loaf rises. 
In both cases, it takes time.  It takes time for a seed to be planted, germinate, grow, and produce.
It takes time to bake bread.  (We are more used to grabbing a loaf of bread off the shelf.)
Things of God work at their own time.  (Not ours)
Things of God unfold. 
Things of God call for patience, wisdom, and steadfastness.
Oh, there are exceptions.  On the Day of Pentecost the Holy Spirit came suddenly! (After centuries of waiting)
When Christ returns he will do so suddenly. (Again after centuries of watching and waiting.)
It will not take centuries for the coronavirus to run its course, for people to discover vaccines and treatments, but it is not a microwave solution.
For now, pay attention.  Learn something every day.  Trust in God - even if you are having a hard time doing so, keep say, "I trust you God".  It will get in your heart.
Get out of the microwave mindset and relish in the unfolding wonder of God's grace in your life and in the world.
This is the day the Lord has made.  We will rejoice and be glad in it.
steve