Quarantine-Of man, by man, for man

                                 

Majority of the messages doing the rounds in the last couple of months on WhatsApp, FB, Twitter or even TikTok revolve around something that is so minuscule and invisible yet has created much havoc. The creators of these memes aren't doing it with the intention of demeaning the horrific effects of this virus, but are doing it to lighten the soul a little. I've got to admit, some of these are too funny...like these...

Out here in India, the mood is varied. On March 24th at 08:00pm our Respected PM announced that a 21-day Lockdown would begin from 12am that night. Immediately there were long lines outside supermarkets with all rushing to stock what they could since they barely had a couple of hours before the shops would shut down (or so they thought).

Most understood the urgency of the situation, yet, because of the low numbers of testings done and reported cases, it didn't sound too alarming for a few when compared to a bustling population like ours. They continued to gather in large numbers unaware of the dangers they were exposing themselves and their fellowmen towards.

Every life is precious, every life lost was someone to somebody. But living a few years in Bombay made me realize how fleeting life is and the necessity of dealing with your fears, mourning your losses and getting on. This doesn't diminish the value for life, just makes you resilient. Probably this is what some groups spread across different areas think-why is such a big deal being made of such a small thing?

For many the lockdown began somewhere around March 09th 2020. But I've been home attending to my kids since February 2020. That's when my youngest contracted chickenpox. Though it was really mild in her case, we decided to keep her home for the mandated period of 10 days. Just before the actual lockdown began, the other daughter was also showing symptoms. And so continued my lockdown. As she got better, the husband got sick. We have always stood in faith, confident of the power of the Blood of Jesus which is our protection. Yet, we've been through enough in life to learn that though our Lord intends to keep us safe at all times, doesn't mean we may not have to walk through the fire. In the fire, He has promised to NEVER leaves us alone, even at our loneliest. Following the husband, the other daughter fell sick and it was just a few days before it was my turn. Yet, I'm grateful for the lockdown which has taught so many how to be aware of germs and practice better hygiene. The OCD term my husband used for me coz I have always been extra particular about cleanliness is what I tease him with now.

After the popularity of the virus, the second in line for the most number of memes is related to those staying indoors. Boring. Don't know what to do. Don't know how to pass their time.

Seriously? I still haven't reached there!!! From cooking multiple times, (though not elaborate meals) to cleaning the house, to gardening and enjoying some playtime with the kids, this is surely a welcome change. Haven't we longed for a life like this for ages now? (Of course, having a monthly salary hit the account is a cherry on the cake...versus businesses like ours which have been hit hard) This is the perfect time to focus on quality family time, prayer sessions, teaching the kids to help around the home, enjoying fun activities, watching movies together, planting a vegetable and fruit garden (try pots) lazing around doing nothing, even trying out new stuff!

For a change; resources may be limited, but time isn't. Life has ALWAYS been so rushed, so stressed (I don't deny struggling in faith through the storms), so burdensome that multiple times I've just screamed at my kids out of frustration. Not right, I know...but a few mothers may relate. Many times I've felt like I've lost opportunities to just sit and enjoy my kids, my home, my own cooked meals, even my husband! The frustration levels have definitely dipped drastically and slowly but surely I'm beginning to cherish this time. They always said, breathe, breathing helps...this purer air quality has definitely been a boon! We are breathing better air...looking at starrier skies...listening to the amazing sounds of new birds...

The mere staying indoors of the majority of the people has brought back the dolphins to Venice...and not to forget our very own Mumbai! Deers on the roads of Japan, bisons on the roads of Chickamagalur, nilgais taking strolls in Noida and peacocks right here in Malleshwaram!

Relatives, friends, colleagues, school friends and other peers have begun getting in touch to "find out how are you doing." Social distancing is the requirement of the hour, but somehow, we are beginning to value relationships more than ever.

With all this happening on the foreground, there is something selfless and powerful happening on the background too. While soldiers stand at the borders of our countries sacrificing their precious lives for us, there are also soldiers in white coats relentlessly doing their jobs day in and day out knowing that this unseen enemy can be deadlier than a seen one. Police are patrolling day and night struggling to enforce the lockdown specifically on loiterers. Sweepers, cleaners, community helpers who continue to report to work ensuring the cleanliness that is in their reach. Thank God for all these people who are not doing it for any media coverage, TRPs, fame or recognition, but are doing it for us and our families. May the Lord repay them with heavenly blessings that cannot be compared to earthly gains.

Let us also not forget those who are in situations where getting bored would actually be a privilege. Kids and women who are a part of abusive households. That female who would find her solace in drowning herself amidst the busyness of life...in the travel, at work; now continually at home trying to manage work and the constant negativity in the house. That woman who had a cook, maid and babysitter to help her balance her home, office and dependant in-laws; now struggling and juggling between doing it all by herself. The guy whose jokes everyone enjoyed but he is now working from home, wondering how to deal with his depression and loneliness. Since we are in a much better position than them, the least we can do is remember them in our prayers.

Heartbreaking. I wanted to know what the Lord was saying about this situation. While I haven't finished searching or receiving my answers, I'd like to look at the quarantine from a spiritual perspective. Romans 13: 1-2 says

                   
                     

The Lord of the Bible calls us to respect even the human authority that comes through the governing bodies. If only, we could see this from the eyes of the Lord who wants us to submit in obedience, there is a much bigger blessing He wants to pour into our lives. Even Noah had to put up with all kinds of beings in his Ark, then what makes it so uncomfortable for us to put up with eachother. Home is where the heart is...we are privileged to be with our loved ones at home! But if our minds or hearts are being over taken by over usage of the cell phone, binge watching the TV or constant sleepiness and laziness, we need some deep soul-searching.


                                          


We are all surely going to come out of this plague much more stronger-in our relationships, in our health, in our minds and in our souls. This is a time of renewal more than destruction. The Earth, without wasting time has begun her self-healing...let's learn from her. What have we done to our Earth-literally abused nature, taken advantage of all the good that she gave, ruthlessly pained her for our benefits, fully aware of the overall damage. Yet, when the opportunity came, she gently and quietly began to display her beauty once again. Many of us have gone through much despair, hopelessness, anxiety, deep hurts and what not. Let's take this time giving all these struggles and pains to the Lord. His Word says in Psalms 55:2


                                         


We will not be consumed by this. The Lord Almighty in all His majesty always desired to deliver man...that's what Jesus died for. Covid was nailed to the cross and the Blood of Jesus defeated it. Just as Jesus rose from the grave, let hope arise...let your faith be greater than any fear whatsoever! Put your trust in the Lord and He will renew your strength and your life! He will be your

- Strength to forgive,
- strength to let go,
- strength to believe,
- strength to overcome,
- strength to stand strong,
- strength to smile,
- strength to serve,
- strength to soar high above on wings like an eagle!


                                        

Bangalore Lockdown-Life Unlocked

Looking forward to the next week. A week where almost everyone is expected to be home...not in malls, or theatres, or shopping. How to keep the kids occupied is out of the question..for kids have enough and more ways of keeping themselves busy if just left to explore on their own.

We've already begun with painting an old bench that had completely lost it's color. Everyone got to have a go at it...and thoroughly loved it. Only thing was...the carpenter changed the colour of our bench. That gave me an opportunity to work on it and what a piece of art it turned out to be.

Slowdown is happening and it's not really scary but much needed for our fast food generation. Leisure, by William Henry Davies has always been my favourite. A poor life this if, full of care, we have no time to stand and stare. Stare at the skies as the clouds change various formations...get a glimpse of heaven perhaps, squirrels fighting with each other and arguing in such sweet loud sounds. Listening to the joyful songs of the sun birdies, cuckoos, parrots, mynahs, bubuls, drongos and figuring the names of so many more. Admiring the beauty of the varied butterflies fluttering from flower to flower. Carefully watching every new leaf and every new bud that's waiting to blossom and enjoying the new colourful blooms.

Sleeping in a little longer is definitely going to be one of the best things to happen for me...though just for a week. If I had a choice to wake up on a beach to the sound of waves, I would have definitely chosen that. But making the most of now and here is what matters. Getting disciplined in diligently managing their study time while staying away from school will be one of the learning curves for the kids this season. The husband is hands down going to spend much time in our little garden, help the kids with 'hindi' and 'math' and we'll have more movie evenings together!!!

With the options of 'going out' reduced to a few, doing random things that have been pending forever can now be attended to. We're looking forward to this quality time that will do us all a lot of good. We have to be mindful and respectful of the fact that we need to limit our social interactions as well as be extra cautious if we or anyone else is unwell, all completely dependent on the level of quarantine demanded by the government.

It's unfortunate that this virus has claimed many precious lives. But this virus has also given an opportunity for earth and mankind to heal. With lesser travel there's lower pollution, with no shopping centres to while away time, there's more personal and family time, with more sanitizing of everything there's better hygiene being practiced. This lockdown has quietly opened doors that we had unconsciously and consciously shut, giving us new perspectives on old and valuable practices.

There is a strange 'rest' that has overtaken me during this time and I'm grateful to the Lord for the peace that passes human understanding. (Phil 4:7) No fear, no panic, no worry. The strong conviction and belief in what my Lord Jesus has done for me at the cross of Calvary fills my heart with so much gratitude and joy. He was not a figment of someone's imagination...He lived for real. 

Why do I believe that He is God? Actually, I believe He's much more. He's been my friend when my own 'true' friends have harshly judged and betrayed me. He's been my Father when even my earthly father may have not known the deepest desires of my heart. He's been my counselor when life has confused me with behaviors and situations beyond my comprehension. He's been my brother when I've really needed someone to stand up for me or lend me a shoulder. He's been my companion in times of utter loneliness and dark despair.

In situations like now, I know He is my healer. I also know He's my covering, my protection, my shield. (Psalm 28:7) His body was subjected to such brutality that even the last drop of blood was squeezed out of Him. As gross as it sounds, there was a greater purpose behind this...His blood has a marvelous healing power. It's true. How can His blood that was spilled over 2000 years ago be relevant today? That's exactly what makes Him God. He has never been bound by time, space or matter. How then did He become man? Because He chose to. That was the most effective way of Him relating to what we battle with and most humble manner of overcoming the powers of darkness. 

Though man continues to offer sacrifices for many things in life, Jesus offered Himself as the greatest and spotless sacrifice once and for all man. If I could only fathom the power that was contained in the Spirit of Jesus, I would realize the immense authority I have access to. For His death on the cross was not the end but the Key opening to the greatness of things beyond the Universe. His body couldn't be contained in the grave they put Him behind. That same power of His Spirit broke all chains that could ever bind any of us. This is what was unlocked: That same Spirit that raised Christ from the dead now lives within ANYONE who believes. (Rom 6:10)

So here's wishing you and your family a wonderful summer break. Praying that the Holy Shadowing of the Almighty would be upon you, protecting and shielding you from every attack, every virus and every disease of the dark world.