Romans 8: 24-28
24 For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have? 25 But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently. 26 In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. 27 And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God. 28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

Reflection:
During this COVID-19 pandemic, our lifestyles, our livelihoods, and, most importantly, our health have been attacked by an invisible enemy.  We cannot see it, and we aren’t entirely sure how to combat it.  There has been a plethora of confusing messages as to how we should respond.  Do we wear masks, or do we not?  Do we stay home, or do we go out?  Do we return to work as the curve flattens, or do we wait for a vaccine?  Clearly, my personal challenge has been in the area of discernment.  While I want to do the “right thing” and be a responsible, informed, and compassionate “team player,” it seems impossible to know how to confidently proceed.  What do I do?  Who’s data do I trust?  How do I have hope when the news seems so bleak, and the end to this pandemic is unknown?

Paul reminds us in this scripture that our hope is not found in that which is seen.  Instead, our hope is found in knowing that our God is our helpmate.  He goes before us to make a way according to His will.  We don’t have to worry about what we cannot see or what we fear might happen because where God is, there is good being done.  We are assured that God is here, among us right now and always, working for us.  When we are lost and confused, weary from what this pandemic throws at us, uncertain of how to pray or what prayer to offer up, the Holy Spirit intercedes on our behalf.   God always knows what we need, even before we do, and He promises to work in all situations for our good.  While we might not be able to see how God is working for each of us in this current crisis, we can trust that He has a plan for everyone affected, and that plan will be for our ultimate good.

Closing Prayer:
Father God, I will choose to seek you each day, to trust in your will, and to have hope that you will guide us through this unpredictable time.  Pour into me your Holy Spirit, so when confusion takes hold and I don’t know how to pray or what to pray for, the Spirit will intercede on my behalf.  Thank you, Father, for your constant presence, your unwavering faithfulness, and your promise of hope.  In your holy name I pray.  Amen.