Reflections (Social)

We are living in a period of "social distancing".  I don't know about you, but this seems strange.  If you feel this need to keep six feet apart from others and stay at home is strange, there is a good reason.  As Christians, we are not wired for "social distancing".  We are wired to live our faith in community.
John Wesley is quoted as saying, "The gospel of Christ knows of no religion but social; no holiness but social holiness."
In present times and contexts some have taken that to be a reference to "social action".  That is a misreading of the quote.  Wesley was teaching the Methodists not to line up with those who practiced "holy solitaries".  We are wired for community.
There were many calls to what we would refer to as "social action".
The Methodists worked against slavery. 
The Methodists sought to feed the hungry, teach the illiterate, and care for the poor.
Wesley spoke against "distilled spirits".  He does not appear to have any problem with "brews" but "distilled", yes.  But the reason may be different from what you might think.  The distilleries used grain in the process.  That was grain being used for alcohol that could then not be used for food for the poor.  Therefore, Wesley was opposed to distilled spirits.  It was a "care for the poor" thing.
But I have gotten off track.
When Wesley taught about social religion and holiness, he was instructing the people on the importance of meeting together.  This is how we are wired.
So, we have a problem.  We are in a time of social distancing and isolation.  It is intended to be for the public good.  We will get antsy. 
Here is a thought.  First, why not use language of "physical distancing".  That would make me feel better and it appears to be acceptable language in the current setting.
More importantly, let's see our physical distancing as a spiritual discipline.  We may be wired for community, but there is a spiritual discipline of solitude.
Practice solitude.  That is what we are being asked to do.
Personally, this is not as bad (being under the stay at home) as it could be.  That may be due to the fact I have built a spiritual discipline of solitude into my daily life.  For decades I have taken a portion of the day and spent it alone.  This is my time to pray and read the scriptures.  This is a spiritual discipline of solitude.
I am not a hermit.  I am not one of the "desert Fathers" who lived solitary lives.  (They still entertained pilgrims seeking insight into the spiritual life.)  But I do value solitude.  I need time with God!
So, it may prove helpful to appreciate the call to slow the pace and spend some time in solitude.  Just include the Lord.
We may actually discover a spiritual discipline that may build us up long after this crisis is past.
This is the day the Lord has made.  Let us rejoice and be glad in it.
steve