Remember that you are always surrounded by special people in your life who are sent to guide you on your path of salvation. Recognize the loved ones who will help you in your life by reading the following article.
"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." Deuteronomy 31:6
In times of adversity, such as pandemic and confinement, it is common to experience a sense of emptiness and alienation. Many people feel left out and alone, trapped in an emotional circle that seems to have no end. However, it is essential to remember that our Lord is a God of relationship and community, and designed us with a nature of connection.
One of the groups most affected by this situation are our older adults. Their vulnerability to the pandemic is compounded by the lack of close contact with loved ones. Grandparents miss their family members, neighbors, and the congregation at their church. The inability to engage in daily activities, such as going for a walk or shopping, leaves them lonely and helpless.
"See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him." 1 John 3:1
The Heavenly Father urges us to care for and accompany our older adults. It is important to call them, listen to their words loaded with humility and patience, pray with them and let them know that we are always by their side. Our presence and support are fundamental to alleviate their loneliness and sadness.
Recognizing loneliness and its signs is the first step in dealing with it. Tiredness, difficulty falling asleep, sudden desires to cry and be hugged are indicators of this situation. In these moments, we must remember that we are called by God to connect people to His Word and His Glory. The Wisdom we find in the Holy Scriptures gives us the tools to be creative and overcome adverse moments.
"Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me." Psalm 23:4
Connection with God is a refuge in solitude. As children of God, we always move forward with Him on the path of salvation. His presence is permanent in our hearts and will never leave us. In times of loneliness, we can find comfort and strength in His unconditional love.
The call is clear: in times of loneliness, let us draw close to God and connect with our fellow human beings. Let us not allow the exclusion of loneliness to keep us from community and Faith. Prayer, listening and love for our neighbors are the tools to overcome loneliness and find the support and comfort we need.
"Turn to me and be gracious to me, for I am lonely and afflicted. Relieve the troubles of my heart and free me from my anguish. Look on my affliction and my distress and take away all my sins." Psalm 25: 16-18
The Lord invites us to love one another as He loves us, to care for one another and to accompany one another at all times. No matter how dark the road we travel, if we trust in God and stay united as a community, we will never be alone. In faith and fraternal communion, we find the hope and comfort we need to overcome loneliness and face any adversity that comes our way.
It is crucial to remember that our elders are an essential part of the Christian community and society, representing the roots and memory of a people.