Living through historic times brings out the best and the worst of humanity; many of us have already seen this during this first, and hopefully last year of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The changes we have had to face, react to, and adapt to have been considerable. Many have also noted, most of these issues have been out of our control. While a recession and economic downturns have their significant detrimental effect, the experience of helplessness and separation, which the health crisis caused, was something new for most of us.
Science did not have the answers; local and national governments created notices, guidelines and an ever-changing set of policies; all intended to keep us safe while trying to limit the damage to everyday lives. These are likely to continue until we have an effective vaccine and treatments to avoid the further tragic loss of life.
Meanwhile, we have to live in and through the situation and its effect on us all. Where do we go in these circumstances, finding where God is in all of this. Walking with God during these times is a retreat that may help considerably in this journey.
Recognizing the hurt and separation, many of us have felt, just as those did before us in sacred scripture. In listening and feeling, we can reflect on where God is calling us during this process, that far from being abandoned, He is with us on the journey if only we can notice His presence.
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” John 14:27
The conferences and dedicated prayers in the retreat will pave the way for us to understand better our part in this journey, and how, by walking with God, we can see he was there all along. The final stages of the weekend invite us to attend the banquet at the table of God’s presence, recognizing He is always with us.
