Day 240 | Saturday, 14 November 2020

Day 240 - Audio Version

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Day 240| Saturday, 14 November 2020
 
I am guessing that we are all getting weary of dealing with the Corona Virus which has plagued us since March.  Right now, our country is witnessing dramatic increases in at least 43 states.  As of November 12th, we have had 10.6 million cases with 243,000 deaths.  There were 1,172 deaths on the 12th.  Also, on the 12th there were 163,402 cases just on that day.  The average for cases over the past 14 days is 134,078.  The change in cases over the past 14 days is 72%.  Those hospitalized equals 67,096 as reported.  130 secret service members have tested positive or are quarantined.
 
As I was listening to a local radio station yesterday morning, I was surprised to hear the broadcaster say that there were 60 new cases in the county over the past two days.  As of 5 PM on November 12th, the cases in the county were at 1,277 with 161 active and 749 in isolation or quarantine.  Deaths remain at 15.  There have been 341 cases in the Jamestown Zip code, 36 in Lakewood, 309 in Dunkirk and 253 in Fredonia.
 
As we have made adjustments in our lifestyles since March, we have more to make to stay safe.  This will be a different Thanksgiving Holiday for many of us.  For the first time in our married life, Judy and I will not be with any family members for the big Turkey day.
 
This has been an unprecedented year with dealing with COVID-19.  Along with dealing with this pandemic, we are also dealing with unprecedented events in our democracy with the unrest in Washington DC.
 
Over the last 239 days, my intent has been to offer a glimmer of hope to all of us as we journey through this time.  With that in mind, here is one of the versions of Psalm 23 offered many months ago.

Psalm 23 – New International Version (NIV)
  The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. 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. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
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Gracious God, here we are again seeking your assurance that all will be okay in our world while we are dealing with so much uncertainty.  One thing we believe for sure is that You are our God, and you weep for your children who are suffering.  Hope is a small word, yet it has power.  Hope is the light you are bringing into this darkness.  Lord be with those who need you most during this time.  Comfort those who mourn.  Strengthen the health care workers who are stretched beyond their limits.  Hear our prayers amen.