Someone shared a story about a homeless man whose looks appeared very intimidating. He was large in stature, bearded, and seemingly rough—with a chip on his shoulder. Because of how he appeared, the gentleman relating the story was a bit skeptical about assisting in the homeless man’s need for money. However, upon giving him $2, the rugged man gave the warmest smile and said: “Bless you, and thank you,” very gently and humbly. To his surprise, what he saw concerning the homeless man was nothing like what he had assumed.
At this time in our lives, after the COVID-19 pandemic swept the globe, we are finally getting things back in order, back like they were, back to normal. Or are we? People have resumed somewhat ‘normal’ activities such as returning inside buildings to work, attending concerts, and sitting in crowded restaurants for meals—and yes, sitting in pews on Sunday mornings for worship services. But to what degree?
There are many people who are not doing those things. There are some people who are still afraid. Some people still prefer not to be around many other people. Some people who live with elderly individuals are still susceptible to having life-threatening difficulties in the event of contracting the disease that remains a threat. Whatever the case may be, it is not wise to pass judgment upon anyone who is wearing a mask or maintaining what they feel is needed for their life’s circumstances.
As stated in a previous edition of ‘Cancer: My Journey in Time,’ Rev. Enoch Fuzz, pastor of Corinthian Missionary Baptist Church, has been under a diagnosis of stage four lung cancer for over two years and never contracted COVID-19. Amidst everything happening all around him with a plethora of visitors, some wearing masks and/or gloves and others who did not, many doctor visits and hospital stays—he has been blessed with not having any strand of COVID-19. Although he maintains a discomfort in his left hip due to his diagnosis, he has had another busy week starting to visit some of the sick and shut-ins on his list. He is also attending workshops on ‘Post COVID Church.’
Just as this gentle old man appears to be of one demeanor, is this the tenor of our new society? What appears to be ‘back to normal’ is not normal at all. Do we know what we’re seeing as we face the world we live in post COVID?
Take a closer look. Things may never be ‘the same as they used to be.’ And remember that post-COVID does not necessarily mean that COVID has completely gone away. There are still daily cases. This will result in a whole new way of doing things in many areas.
Therefore, continue to pray for Rev. Fuzz as he continues to heal. Pray that he will continue to remain COVID free as he learns about the post-COVID church—and continue to pray for a completely post-COVID world.
As we continue to pray for Rev. Fuzz’s health and healing, we thank God for his ministry. Pray, share, and be encouraged by the postings and weekly readings of ‘Cancer: My Journey in Time.’
