DEVOTIONAL
Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others. The point being that we can often find what we are looking for in caring for others.
Outward, Not Inward
R
emember when you used to be able to shake someone's hand when you met the person? Or if you heard someone sneeze next to you, the only thought you had was to be polite and say, "Bless you”? Not too long ago, that was our norm, but the last year has shown us how quickly norms can drastically shift. COVID-19 has changed how we interact in so many ways that it will take a great deal of time and reflection to understand just how much it has affected us. While we are enduring and adapting, much of our actions have led to various degrees of isolation. Left alone in isolation, our thoughts and attitudes can become very focused on self as we grapple with the ongoing challenges COVID-19 and life in general continue to throw at each of us.
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Alberta Adventist News
JUNE 2021
I also remember when I learned the counter to the dilemma of self during a struggle. Around five years ago, I talked with my pastor at the time, John Murley, about finding answers to something pressing in which I was seeking God's direction. I remember when he said to me, "The answer is not always found within, Ryan" and proceeded to open his Bible to Philippians 2:4: "Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others" (ESV). The point is we can often find that for which we are looking in caring for others. The answer to how we cope with COVID-19 and the fear it carries is not only found in how each of us handles it within our minds but also in loving relationships in which we build each other up. God created us
to be relational beings, so it makes perfect sense that the remedy to an ever-changing world is a loving relationship that edifies. While our norms have shifted, our intentionality about staying connected does not have to shift. Let our love and care for each other be the constant that does not shift. If you find yourself somewhat stuck in a mentality set on self, reach out and look after someone else's interests and see how that outward care becomes a blessing to you both.
Ryan Reeves
Pastor, Medicine Hat Adventist Church
