This stinks.

What makes COVID-19 different from the flu, an STD, or some other life-threatening illness? Perhaps it is the unknown, or the impact on our social and financial wellbeing. As this “invisible enemy,” referred to by President Trump, has caught the attention of the entire world. With the increasing number of deaths, individuals in hospitals and nursing homes fighting for their lives, the loss of jobs and business, and humans having to live isolated from loved ones – the world is in a state of uncertainty.

In response to COVID-19, spiritual leaders have used their social media platforms to encourage and support those in fear. Messages such as, “God is in control” or “praise God he/she died in the Lord” or other upbeat messages flood social media news feeds. And while I appreciate these truths, I also believe that this moment is inviting us to lament. Why? Because God is present in our reality and invites us to be present. The facts are: people are sick and dying, loved ones are living in isolation, jobs and businesses have been lost, and fear resides in the hearts of many people. If God is here, shouldn’t our faith be strengthened through all this? The answer is yes; however, lamenting is a spiritual practice, an appropriate response, and part of maturing faith. Proper lamenting is not a sign of a weakened faith but an expression of courage released before God.

In the Bible we have great expressions of individuals lamenting before God. The Psalms, Job, Lamentations, and other biblical writings serve as models and guides that exemplify being human in our reality, and express how we feel before the God who is actively working in our midst. So yeah, COVID-19 stinks, and I believe God welcomes me as I am.

If you find yourself in this tension, it is my prayer that you will feel heard, understood, and encouraged by reading this article. I would like to invite you to carve out 30 minutes this week to be alone with God. Turn off your phones (don’t just put it on silent), tablets, laptops, TV, and radio, and find a comfortable place to sit or lie down. Then gently close your eyes and take three to five deep inhales and exhales. While exhaling, release any sighs and noise that complements the inner emotions you may have. After the cycle of deep breaths, allow your breathing to return to normal, and pay attention to your breath. As you breathe, ask yourself, “How am I feeling? What are my fears? Why am I afraid and feeling this way?” Allow five to seven minutes for your consciousness to gather the answers. Then write your conclusions in your journal, or on a vision board, paper, or anything you desire. When writing, write the way you want to write. It can be a drawing, coded language, poem, or an actual prayer. Finally, once you have completed this, offer it up to God in your own unique way. The good news is that God knows, God is present, and God receives all of you.

Happy lamenting!