I just saw this headline: “‘Broken Heart Syndrome’ has increased during coronavirus pandemic, study shows.” The article says, “The study found the incidence of stress cardiomyopathy…increased by a significant 7.8 percent during the pandemic’s initial apex…. The findings suggest that psychological, social and economic stress related to the coronavirus are associated with the increase.” Duh. Sorry, but is there any doubt in your mind that the stress and anxiety level in our communities is off the charts. The mental and consequently physical toll the pandemic is having on people is enormous. I am seeing people say things and do things that I know they would never have even considered before. I called a community leader the other day just to check on them, let them know that I loved and appreciated them, and I knew God had them in their position for “such a time as this.” I also reassured them that as they sought Him, I knew without a doubt they would make the right decisions. I could tell they were stunned and caught off guard by a call not wanting to complain, give an opinion on what they should do, or even just ask questions. Nothing wrong with those calls at times, but this wasn’t one of them. We all need a “chill pill”. God gives us one as He affirms that He loves us, is at work and has things, no matter how it looks, under control. Today, find peace in that knowledge and then share it through kind words and deeds. #BeTheEdge
“For I know the plans that I have for you,’ declares the LORD, ‘plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11 NASB