Roadmap to Recovery

Navigating one’s way through a global pandemic is exhausting.

Living with fear, social isolation, and radical transformation is gruelling.  So, this month’s anticipated conclusion of the government’s four-step roadmap to a more normal life is undoubtedly a welcome marker.  Of course, it’s subject to various criteria being met; that’s still the caveat.  Despite reassurances that this will be an irreversible recovery the course remains unclear and the promise of certainty is shrouded by doubt in the face of a relentlessly capricious virus ….. and so we wait, we hope, we doubt, and we tell ourselves not to be complacent, just in case things take an unexpected turn.

As unpredictable as the future seems, we needn’t go forward with doubt and uncertainty as our guides.  Whilst we are thankful for their leadership and expertise, the true roadmap to recovery lies not with governments or scientists, but with God.  The Bible tells us the path is charted for us, if we only place our faith in Him: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” – Proverbs 3 v 5-6 and, contrary to the unpredictable nature of our world and our lives now, when we commit to walking in faith the destination is unequivocal: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life” – John 3:16.

Navigating one’s way through a global pandemic is exhausting but if we commit to following the true roadmap to recovery, with the Lord Jesus as our companion on that journey, we can find enduring solace and rest. “Come to me, all who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” – Matthew 11:28-30.