In-Between Normal
The “normal” we are so familiar with no longer exists.
Many hope and pray to "go back to normal" soon. We miss the comfort and routine that we are so used to; work, school, hobbies, church, social life ...
Others talk about a "new normal," a new world that is very different from the old.
The problem is, we have no idea how long the journey will take and what it will look like. We become reluctant sojourners finding our bearings “in-between normals.”
The people of Israel also experienced their "in-between normals." Their country was invaded and they exiled to Babylon. The old normal was gone.
Thankfully, God promised that this exile will last for only a period of time. But their "new normal" back to Jerusalem wouldn't happen until 70 years later.
In the meantime, they were stuck "in-between normals." So, what did they do?
Let's begin with what God has to say first. God spoke through the prophet Jeremiah.
"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11)
Here is an important lesson: Even though we are stuck "in-between normals," God is still in control. He knows exactly where we are, and what is going on in our lives. There is always "hope and a future" in God.
So, what should we do?
"Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you,” declares the Lord,...
Jeremiah 29:12-14
Look! You can find God! Yes, you can!
Call on God! Come to God! Pray to God! Seek God! He will be found by you!
Though we have no control of the environment, we have a God who does! We have no control over what will happen during this "in-between normals," but we do have control over how we would respond to it.
Here is the question: One year from now, what do you want to say about the you now?
Your response now will define your legacy one year from now.