Serving often takes on a new light during a pandemic. The “survival” mindset tends to dominate as life becomes more inconvenient for some or extremely difficult for others. We struggle to think outside of our own needs in order to make sure we have plenty of toilet paper and sanitary wipes without considering the plight of others.
However, we must acknowledge though that our path is picking up our crosses and following Christ's example. And if He is the direction we set our eyes upon, then we should look to what He said He came to earth to do:
“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” - Mark 10:45
In a moment where Jesus’ disciples were asking Him to serve their interests, Christ turns the tables on them. Likewise, as a people of God’s new kingdom, we are not on this earth to be served but to serve. Despite the restrictions, there remain many ways to serve and love others during this time. None of these are necessarily out of the box or novel ideas but they are still great ways to serve others.
1. Be Conscious of Your Actions: Yes, you might not feel that at risk of Covid-19 but many other people are. Be considerate of how you could make some changes to prevent spreading. Wash your hands frequently.
- Avoid touching your face.
- Use sanitizer.
- Keep your distance (without dramatically acting like people are about to burst into flames).
- Respect the regulations put into place by your authorities as Peter urged the believers to do in 1 Peter 2:14-15.
2. Connect & Empathize With People: With a pandemic like this, people are feeling lonely and disconnected.
- Make an effort to incorporate routines into your day where you either message or call someone you know lives alone or doesn’t have family members.
- "Share a meal" with someone by setting up a video feed while eating dinner.
- Ask people about their struggles and share yours as well.
- Collect prayer requests and carve out time to bring those before God.
- Send a birthday/graduation delivery of treats to help someone celebrate.
- Engage in online competitions/challenges with friends: Lip Sync Battles, Dancing Videos, Pun Contests, Top 10 Lists, etc.
3. Thank the People on the Frontlines: Many healthcare workers are working more hours, are more at risk of contracting the Coronavirus, and have to take more precautions at home.
- Send food or coffee for someone you know in that field.
- Thank them online with a post or a video.
4. Consider Businesses (Especially Small Ones): This is an extremely difficult time for them.
- Purchase gift cards from them.
- Give generous tips.
- Buy items that you could give to other people as encouragement or as a future present.
5. Help Your Neighbors:
- Clean up trash on the street and sidewalks.
- Offer to mow or weed someone else’s lawn.
- Offer to pick up groceries.
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