Day 226 | Saturday, 31 October 2020

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​Day 226 | Saturday,  31 October 2020

Happy All Saints Eve
 
Let me take a few lines to lift up the COVID-19 crisis.  As of 10/30 there have been over 9 million cases in the US.  Of those cases there have been nearly 230 thousand deaths.  On Friday, the US reported nearly 108,000 cases in one day, a record since the beginning of the virus.  41 states have reported increases with many hospitals at capacity.
 
In Chautauqua County as of 10/30/2020 at 5:00 PM there have been 1,060 cases with 308 in zip code 14701 and 31 in Lakewood.  Just one week ago the numbers were 936 for the county and 279 for zip code 14701.
 
This pandemic is not going away.  Here is my dilemma.  I do not understand why there are individuals who believe there is no such thing as COVID-19.  I do not understand why there are people who refuse to wear masks, social distance or abide by CDC guidelines.  I care about my brothers and sisters.  I want to protect them, and I want them to protect me.  What has happened to civility?  God, help us, please.
 
Sorry for the detour.  It is time for Psalm 23 once again.
 
Psalm 23The Lord is my shepherd; - that’s relationship
 I shall not want. – this is supply
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: - refreshment
he leadeth me beside the still waters. – rest
He restoreth my soul:  - healing
he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness- goodness
for his name’s sake – purpose
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, - testing
I will fear no evil: - protection
for thou art with me; - faithfulness
thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. – discipline
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies; - hope
thou anointest my head with oil; - consecration
my cup runneth over. – abundance
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: - blessing
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord  - security
forever.  – eternity
 
Holy and gracious God, we come to you on this All Saints
Eve ever thankful for those who have gone on before us and who have left us such a legacy in our lives, our community, our country, our world and in our faith journey.  Help us to live saintly lives that show the light of Jesus to those around us.  Be with those who are broken over the strain of fighting the Corona Virus and who are struggling with their faith.  Help all those who are doing their best to heal our nation and its people.  Lord, hear our prayers.  Amen (Prayers for Caroline and her healing)