“And though this world, with devils filled, should threaten to undo us, we will not fear, for God has willed his truth to triumph through us.” These words are the first half of the third verse in A Mighty Fortress is Our God - a Lutheran hymn classic. As we navigate through the pandemic those lyrics have been a source of comfort, as they are a reminder that through us, Christ is triumphing throughout our world. I need to be reminded of Christ’s triumphancy during the heights of the pandemic, especially when I don’t feel as if there is victory. I see the case numbers, news headlines, feel the impacts in my life, and I think the virus is in control.
When the pandemic was quieting down I spent my trips to Louisville as treasured finite moments to embark on the city. Justin and I would hop around the inner ring of the city, grab an Old Fashioned at Moxy (a fancy hotel bar in downtown Louisville), possibly venture onto the waterfront and walking bridge, and eventually end up in one of Derby city’s bustling neighborhoods to most likely window shop.
But this past weekend, I didn’t do any of those things. With my parents, I watched the Tampa Bay Bucs beat the Philadelphia Eagles, had multiple game nights at my friend’s house and had a lazy apartment-lounging day with my fiance. It was a fairly calm weekend due to our current pandemic reality.
The pandemic is isolating as we find ourselves meeting virtually, keeping ourselves away from public gatherings and in some cases, loved ones. But this past weekend, my cup was filled, as I got to spend time with my closest friends and family and not feel as if I was leaving as soon as I arrived. In other words, though my weekend was different, the pandemic didn’t get the final word.
Yes, zoom is most certainly not the same as face-to-face interaction, and virtual worship feels incomplete. But us connecting despite our current reality is Christ’s triumphant victory through us. In the midst of all the chaos the pandemic brings, there are alleluia moments to be celebrated. During this pandemic, we are challenged to find new ways to connect and share moments with each other. And when we do, we can proclaim Christ’s victory.
Your sibling in Christ,
Pastor Alec Brock, Seminary Intern