Last week we were able to meet in the church again for worship. We had a blended service using Zoom and the church. It worked very well. It is very strange though not being able to sing in the church and all having to distance so much. Our midweek service was held on Zoom only.
This week we are planning morning and afternoon services because the minister is visiting from a distance and so he will be provided with hospitality at the church between services.
Work has continued to be very busy this week and there was another large online meeting which worked well.
Tesco has stopped its one way system now. I'm not sure this is such a good idea as in my experience it certainly reduced the distancing. Numbers of cases and deaths went up yesterday. The government has said many times that restrictions will be increased where needed. Leicester still remanins under lockdown as the cases were too high for the restrictions to be eased last week.
Last weekend I was able to go in my sisters house instead of having dinner in the garden. Things are gradually returning to a resemblance of normal.
I have my return to work risk assessment interview scheduled for next week but I'm not sure when the plan to return will be fulfilled - mid to late August I would imagine.
The government announced this week plans for swimming pools and gyms to reopen. These are the last businesses remaining shut. They can reopen in a couple of weeks with distancing. The chancellor announced lots of measures to try to help to stimulate the economy - reducing stamp duty, reducing vat for the hospitality industry, grants to businesses for employing young people. Schools are making plans for returning in September with bubbles and one way systems.
It feels like we are on a journey and making progress but there is a long way to go yet and there may be several hurdles along the way but we know the Lord is in complete control, He has brought all of this into our path and He is with us all the way.
Sunday 12 July 2020
Sunday 5 July 2020
Coronavirus Reflections #16
This week has ended with the biggest easing of restrictions that we have had. Yesterday hairdressers, pubs and restaurants were allowed to open. Many were desperate for a haircut so there were several stories of queues for the barbers.
Churches are now allowed to meet under particular guidance. Social distancing must continue, no singing is allowed. The church has a one way system with sanitiser on entry and exit. Doors and windows have to be opened and every other pew is blocked off. We look forward to being able to gather together in the Lord's house again although it will be difficult to have fellowship with one another and we are not allowed to sing. The service is aiming to be a blend of worship in the church and those who still need to remain at home.
We can also now meet inside one another's homes - 2 households only.
I've done quite a few Track and Trace shifts this week. It has been difficult to get shifts due to demand so mine have been a bit sporadic.
Work continues to be from home but this week the clinics have all been fully booked so demand has increasing. Osteopathic colleagues are reporting a lot of demand for their services too.
Now remains the time to reflect and apply the lessons of lockdown - God removed sport, work, church fellowship, family interaction, pubs, restaurants, gyms and left us to ourselves causing many to reflect. Now we are able to return to church but not with instruments and singing - the focus is to be reading, prayer and preaching.
We praise the Lord for His mercy and pray for His continued teaching and revival of the church, and nation.
Churches are now allowed to meet under particular guidance. Social distancing must continue, no singing is allowed. The church has a one way system with sanitiser on entry and exit. Doors and windows have to be opened and every other pew is blocked off. We look forward to being able to gather together in the Lord's house again although it will be difficult to have fellowship with one another and we are not allowed to sing. The service is aiming to be a blend of worship in the church and those who still need to remain at home.
We can also now meet inside one another's homes - 2 households only.
I've done quite a few Track and Trace shifts this week. It has been difficult to get shifts due to demand so mine have been a bit sporadic.
Work continues to be from home but this week the clinics have all been fully booked so demand has increasing. Osteopathic colleagues are reporting a lot of demand for their services too.
Now remains the time to reflect and apply the lessons of lockdown - God removed sport, work, church fellowship, family interaction, pubs, restaurants, gyms and left us to ourselves causing many to reflect. Now we are able to return to church but not with instruments and singing - the focus is to be reading, prayer and preaching.
We praise the Lord for His mercy and pray for His continued teaching and revival of the church, and nation.
Sunday 28 June 2020
Coronavirus Reflections #15
This week a big announcement was made for the easing of lockdown. Many businessses will be allowed to open from the 4th July - hairdressers, restaurants, cinemas. Some still remain closed including indoor gyms and swimming pools. Most importantly it was confirmed that churches can reopen from next weekend for services. There are however, many restrictions in place and some details still need to be clarified.
Churches have to be social distanced. Sanitiser must be used on the way in and out. Cleaning must take place to reduce cross-infection. A few us went to the church yesterday and put up notices for a one-way system, cleaning, hand-washing and social distancing. We also have blocked off every other pew and measured out distancing taping on the floor. The church is now set up for zoom broadcasting of the preaching. Singing won't be allowed in the services to begin with due to government restrictions.
More mixing will be allowed to so two households can meet up indoors, whilst maintaining distancing.
There have been some very hot days this week with temperatures over 30 degrees. A lot of people went to the beach causing gridlock and massive overcrowding, particularly in Bournemouth.
I attended another online conference. This one had 20 000 people registered to attend. People have responded really positively to these online learning opportunities.
Hopefully today is the last Sunday of Zoom services at home. It's been nice to go and have lunch in my sisters garden the last couple of Sundays. Next week I might be able to venture indoors!
The Lord remains in complete control. We pray that many who have taken Bibles or been spiritually awakened during this period of lockdown will be moved to attend church as we start to gather face to face next week.
Churches have to be social distanced. Sanitiser must be used on the way in and out. Cleaning must take place to reduce cross-infection. A few us went to the church yesterday and put up notices for a one-way system, cleaning, hand-washing and social distancing. We also have blocked off every other pew and measured out distancing taping on the floor. The church is now set up for zoom broadcasting of the preaching. Singing won't be allowed in the services to begin with due to government restrictions.
More mixing will be allowed to so two households can meet up indoors, whilst maintaining distancing.
There have been some very hot days this week with temperatures over 30 degrees. A lot of people went to the beach causing gridlock and massive overcrowding, particularly in Bournemouth.
I attended another online conference. This one had 20 000 people registered to attend. People have responded really positively to these online learning opportunities.
Hopefully today is the last Sunday of Zoom services at home. It's been nice to go and have lunch in my sisters garden the last couple of Sundays. Next week I might be able to venture indoors!
The Lord remains in complete control. We pray that many who have taken Bibles or been spiritually awakened during this period of lockdown will be moved to attend church as we start to gather face to face next week.
Sunday 21 June 2020
Coronavirus Reflections #14
The weather has been a lot more mixed this week with rain and thunder storms as well as sunshine. It's delayed some of my neighbours DIY projects in their gardens.
On Monday this week we had a meeting to plan for the Restoration of Worship at chapel. The government released some guidance last week so we are seeking to apply it in preparation for recommencing corporate worship. I'm sure I'll write more about this later.
It's been nice to have a week of spending time with my parents again. It's hard to remember that social distancing exists if I just stay between my home and my parents. You soon remember though if going to the supermarket or anywhere else.
I enjoyed a walk with my friend yesterday exploring the village of Adderbury. There are some beautiful villages with interesting history in this area of Oxfordshire.
I attended an all day virtual pain conference on Thursday. It was really good to be able to hear a lot of international experts without anyone needing to travel. This may be the future for conferences. There are loads of online learning opportunities at the moment, I've got another conference next week.
Last Sunday we had a preacher from Kent on the feeding of the 5000 and a Bible study on Barnabas. It was a prayer meeting on Tuesday.
The Covid risk number was reduced to 3 this week. Another step in the right direction. It's looking promising for a lot of the restrictions to be lifted in July. I was very encouraged to read this week that the Isle of Man has reached the stage of being able to stop all social distancing albeit no one can leave or enter the island. It became compulsory on Monday to wear face coverings on public transport and all staff and visitors in hospitals.
I was remembering this morning about a time when I was a child and the pastor preached from the same text morning and evening for about 16 weeks and I can't remember what the text is. I wonder if this whole experience will be like that - just a vague memory in the end. What I pray though is that we will not forget the lessons we have learned and will appreciate things more, particularly worshipping God and serving together as a church as well as the lessons for personal spiritual life.
On Monday this week we had a meeting to plan for the Restoration of Worship at chapel. The government released some guidance last week so we are seeking to apply it in preparation for recommencing corporate worship. I'm sure I'll write more about this later.
It's been nice to have a week of spending time with my parents again. It's hard to remember that social distancing exists if I just stay between my home and my parents. You soon remember though if going to the supermarket or anywhere else.
I enjoyed a walk with my friend yesterday exploring the village of Adderbury. There are some beautiful villages with interesting history in this area of Oxfordshire.
I attended an all day virtual pain conference on Thursday. It was really good to be able to hear a lot of international experts without anyone needing to travel. This may be the future for conferences. There are loads of online learning opportunities at the moment, I've got another conference next week.
Last Sunday we had a preacher from Kent on the feeding of the 5000 and a Bible study on Barnabas. It was a prayer meeting on Tuesday.
The Covid risk number was reduced to 3 this week. Another step in the right direction. It's looking promising for a lot of the restrictions to be lifted in July. I was very encouraged to read this week that the Isle of Man has reached the stage of being able to stop all social distancing albeit no one can leave or enter the island. It became compulsory on Monday to wear face coverings on public transport and all staff and visitors in hospitals.
I was remembering this morning about a time when I was a child and the pastor preached from the same text morning and evening for about 16 weeks and I can't remember what the text is. I wonder if this whole experience will be like that - just a vague memory in the end. What I pray though is that we will not forget the lessons we have learned and will appreciate things more, particularly worshipping God and serving together as a church as well as the lessons for personal spiritual life.
Sunday 14 June 2020
Coronavirus Reflections #13
This Sunday marks 1/4 of the year in lockdown, meeting on Zoom. We have been blessed to have preachers each week and during the week and the church has enjoyed being able to see one another. I wonder though what lessons we have learned individually and as a church. Will there be any difference when we meet together again.
This has been quite an eventful week. Yesterday churches were allowed to be opened again for private prayer. This week it was announced that single people could form a bubble with another person or family. This would mean that they could spend the night together and be closer than the 2m distancing. I formed a bubble yesterday with my parents. It was a great joy to have social contact without having to dance around one another maintaining our distance, to go into their home again and share a meal together.
It's also nice that we can mix in groups of up to 6 from mixed households in each others gardens.
There are still around 200 people dieing each day with the virus so all the other distancing rules are in place. Secondary schools will be opening for year 10 next week and non-essential shops. The barriers are gradually being lowered but it certainly is not a return to normal.
We held a church meeting on zoom this week also. The government has issued some guidance to help churches plan for when they can open - potentially in July. Distancing, hand hygiene and reducing potential for cross-infection are the key rulings to apply.
There is ongoing high levels of anxiety in society and the emotional impact of fear and social isolation. I have been seeing this more and more in pain presentations.
Last Sunday we had a visitor on Zoom who knew our preacher. He runs an orphanage in India so it was interesting to hear from him. In the afternoon we had a talk about George Muller and the amazing work that he was enabled to do in preaching and setting up orphanages.
It's strange really, that now we have been in lockdown for so long I had got into a good routine day to day. Moving on to another phase means getting used to a new routine and potentially there will be more and more changes as the weeks go on - returning to church and work. Getting used to social contact again and the freedom to go out and about yet keeping safe will be nice but challenging.
This has been quite an eventful week. Yesterday churches were allowed to be opened again for private prayer. This week it was announced that single people could form a bubble with another person or family. This would mean that they could spend the night together and be closer than the 2m distancing. I formed a bubble yesterday with my parents. It was a great joy to have social contact without having to dance around one another maintaining our distance, to go into their home again and share a meal together.
It's also nice that we can mix in groups of up to 6 from mixed households in each others gardens.
There are still around 200 people dieing each day with the virus so all the other distancing rules are in place. Secondary schools will be opening for year 10 next week and non-essential shops. The barriers are gradually being lowered but it certainly is not a return to normal.
We held a church meeting on zoom this week also. The government has issued some guidance to help churches plan for when they can open - potentially in July. Distancing, hand hygiene and reducing potential for cross-infection are the key rulings to apply.
There is ongoing high levels of anxiety in society and the emotional impact of fear and social isolation. I have been seeing this more and more in pain presentations.
Last Sunday we had a visitor on Zoom who knew our preacher. He runs an orphanage in India so it was interesting to hear from him. In the afternoon we had a talk about George Muller and the amazing work that he was enabled to do in preaching and setting up orphanages.
It's strange really, that now we have been in lockdown for so long I had got into a good routine day to day. Moving on to another phase means getting used to a new routine and potentially there will be more and more changes as the weeks go on - returning to church and work. Getting used to social contact again and the freedom to go out and about yet keeping safe will be nice but challenging.
Sunday 7 June 2020
Coronavirus Reflections #12
I've found this week more difficult again. I think it is mainly from the realisation that for 12 weeks noone has been closer to me than 2m. For someone whose job was based on touch this is tough. It emphasises to me how important physical touch is for our well-being.
Once again I'm feeling so thankful that God is in complete control. This is a light momentary affliction as we await the glorious prospect of eternity with God and without sin. I'm praying earnestly that God will be using these times for His glory - the revival and revitalisation of the church as individuals and a body, for the salvation of many souls - praying for many in my family and more widely. I'm praying that I and many others will come through this with a closer walk with God and a new perspective on life. I enjoyed thinking on this verse this week from my studies of 2 Corinthians:
"and he died for all, that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised." 2 Corinthians 5:15
The restrictions were lifted a little this week with children able to go back to school in reception, year 1 and year 6 but many schools have not gone back yet. We are now able to meet in groups of 6 in the garden. The weather has changed this week so it is much cooler and we had some heavy rain storms yesterday. The prime minister warned people not to retreat inside in their groups.
There have been many protests around the world over the racist murder of a black man in the USA. A terrible tragedy and important to speak up against but maybe using different means. These protests are breaking the lockdown rules and risk increasing the spread of the virus as well as some of them becoming violent.
Anxiety and distress seems to be ever more prevalent from my limited clinical sample. Clinics are busy and many are yearning for services to get back to normal. There are talks of us returning to face to face contact but a lot of changes need to be made. Risk assessments are being carried out in all areas.
This week it was announced that from the 15th June it will be compulsory to wear face masks on public transport and in hospital settings. The mind boggles as to whatever life is going to be like for the forseeable future.
We've finished the bible study on Galatians with church now. We have another preacher scheduled for the morning but will move on to a new series of afternoon studies - I think!
One more week and we will have spent a quarter of the year in lockdown... I'm sure I'll comment on that again next week.
Once again I'm feeling so thankful that God is in complete control. This is a light momentary affliction as we await the glorious prospect of eternity with God and without sin. I'm praying earnestly that God will be using these times for His glory - the revival and revitalisation of the church as individuals and a body, for the salvation of many souls - praying for many in my family and more widely. I'm praying that I and many others will come through this with a closer walk with God and a new perspective on life. I enjoyed thinking on this verse this week from my studies of 2 Corinthians:
"and he died for all, that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised." 2 Corinthians 5:15
The restrictions were lifted a little this week with children able to go back to school in reception, year 1 and year 6 but many schools have not gone back yet. We are now able to meet in groups of 6 in the garden. The weather has changed this week so it is much cooler and we had some heavy rain storms yesterday. The prime minister warned people not to retreat inside in their groups.
There have been many protests around the world over the racist murder of a black man in the USA. A terrible tragedy and important to speak up against but maybe using different means. These protests are breaking the lockdown rules and risk increasing the spread of the virus as well as some of them becoming violent.
Anxiety and distress seems to be ever more prevalent from my limited clinical sample. Clinics are busy and many are yearning for services to get back to normal. There are talks of us returning to face to face contact but a lot of changes need to be made. Risk assessments are being carried out in all areas.
This week it was announced that from the 15th June it will be compulsory to wear face masks on public transport and in hospital settings. The mind boggles as to whatever life is going to be like for the forseeable future.
We've finished the bible study on Galatians with church now. We have another preacher scheduled for the morning but will move on to a new series of afternoon studies - I think!
One more week and we will have spent a quarter of the year in lockdown... I'm sure I'll comment on that again next week.
Sunday 31 May 2020
Coronavirus Reflections #11
Last Sunday our preacher was in Romania. Remarkably it was one of the clearest broadcasts we have had. He preached very powerfully about Noah's ark. Today we have a preacher from Baldock. On Tuesday evening we had a sermon from the pastor of Bedford chapel on pursuing the presence of God.
Monday was a bank holiday. It was lovely to meet my friend for a walk again. This time we enjoyed learning some of the history of Aynho and a walk through the surrouding countryside. The weather has been beautiful this week.
I started a new job but am still going through the training process at the moment - another job from home on the telephone. My main clinical job is getting a lot busier. I'm noticing how levels of anxiety and the effects of isolation seem to be increasing.
There has been further easing of lockdown. From next week Year 1 and reception can return to school, although in a modified format. We will be able to meet in gardens in groups of 6 from multiple households but continuing to social distance. There are still a few hundred dieing each day.
It was nice to meet with friends from my previous church on Zoom this week. It's a wonderful blessing how Christian friendship continues with unity in Christ.
It's strange how waves of isolation distress come. Generally it is fine but every now and then an hour or two of distress come - despair at the never ending nature of lockdown, not enjoying the status of nobody being able to come nearer to me than 2m, fears of lack of the emotional and social impact of this period. Normally though it is fine and you just keep going through the routine. I notice how my work and church Whatsapp groups are a lot quieter now. People seem to be becoming more withdrawn as isolation continues.
For many people in difficult homes or enduring separation from loved ones this will have been a very difficult period. The full impact I am sure is yet to be seen.
Monday was a bank holiday. It was lovely to meet my friend for a walk again. This time we enjoyed learning some of the history of Aynho and a walk through the surrouding countryside. The weather has been beautiful this week.
I started a new job but am still going through the training process at the moment - another job from home on the telephone. My main clinical job is getting a lot busier. I'm noticing how levels of anxiety and the effects of isolation seem to be increasing.
There has been further easing of lockdown. From next week Year 1 and reception can return to school, although in a modified format. We will be able to meet in gardens in groups of 6 from multiple households but continuing to social distance. There are still a few hundred dieing each day.
It was nice to meet with friends from my previous church on Zoom this week. It's a wonderful blessing how Christian friendship continues with unity in Christ.
It's strange how waves of isolation distress come. Generally it is fine but every now and then an hour or two of distress come - despair at the never ending nature of lockdown, not enjoying the status of nobody being able to come nearer to me than 2m, fears of lack of the emotional and social impact of this period. Normally though it is fine and you just keep going through the routine. I notice how my work and church Whatsapp groups are a lot quieter now. People seem to be becoming more withdrawn as isolation continues.
For many people in difficult homes or enduring separation from loved ones this will have been a very difficult period. The full impact I am sure is yet to be seen.
Sunday 24 May 2020
Coronavirus Reflections #10
Week 10 of lockdown and church at home!
This week I have had 3 walks with other people. One after travelling for an hour to meet for a long walk - a sense of normality. It is lovely to have the freedom but it is peculiar trying to maintain the 2m distance. There is always the return to reality of lockdown.
Next week is halfterm so it will be nice for the children to have a break from their home schooling. After half term some children are due to return to school part-time - reception, year 1 and year 6 to begin with.
I've completed my application process to be a contact tracer, The government is relying on the contact tracing system to be able to offer more freedom to people. As would be expected with a rapidly developed system, there are a few early stage issues being identified. It's very impressive all they have put together in a short period of time and hiring around 20000 people. I've got lots of training to do before I can start contacting people.
Last Sunday was the first time we had significant problems with Zoom. It happened nationally. The morning service started with a few difficulties connecting to sound. The afternoon service had to be cancelled because Zoom wouldn't connect. Oliver Baker was the preacher for us again, this time on the 10 lepers healed by Jesus. I continued to be challenged by the Proverbs studies.
Clinics are getting much busier at work - maybe as people are feeling the effects of the stress and sedentary lifestyle of lockdown, perhaps also because people are now taking action as lockdown begins to be eased.
Still making good progress with jobs around the home which is satisfying. I queued up at the garden centre on Monday so now have some gernaiums to enjoy through the summer.
There is still a shortage of flour and baking powder in the supermarket as there has been for several weeks now.
I enjoyed thinking about this part of Corinthians: The gospel - which you received, in which you stand, by which you are being saved if you hold fast to the word - a wonderful picture. I've also been reading Authority by Martyn Lloyd Jones - the authority of Jesus Christ, scripture and the Holy Spirit. How easily we loose sight of this authority and try to do things in our strength, thinking we can engineer things. We need to seek the power of the Holy Spirit to be at work in our day and generation in reviving power.
This week I have had 3 walks with other people. One after travelling for an hour to meet for a long walk - a sense of normality. It is lovely to have the freedom but it is peculiar trying to maintain the 2m distance. There is always the return to reality of lockdown.
Next week is halfterm so it will be nice for the children to have a break from their home schooling. After half term some children are due to return to school part-time - reception, year 1 and year 6 to begin with.
I've completed my application process to be a contact tracer, The government is relying on the contact tracing system to be able to offer more freedom to people. As would be expected with a rapidly developed system, there are a few early stage issues being identified. It's very impressive all they have put together in a short period of time and hiring around 20000 people. I've got lots of training to do before I can start contacting people.
Last Sunday was the first time we had significant problems with Zoom. It happened nationally. The morning service started with a few difficulties connecting to sound. The afternoon service had to be cancelled because Zoom wouldn't connect. Oliver Baker was the preacher for us again, this time on the 10 lepers healed by Jesus. I continued to be challenged by the Proverbs studies.
Clinics are getting much busier at work - maybe as people are feeling the effects of the stress and sedentary lifestyle of lockdown, perhaps also because people are now taking action as lockdown begins to be eased.
Still making good progress with jobs around the home which is satisfying. I queued up at the garden centre on Monday so now have some gernaiums to enjoy through the summer.
There is still a shortage of flour and baking powder in the supermarket as there has been for several weeks now.
I enjoyed thinking about this part of Corinthians: The gospel - which you received, in which you stand, by which you are being saved if you hold fast to the word - a wonderful picture. I've also been reading Authority by Martyn Lloyd Jones - the authority of Jesus Christ, scripture and the Holy Spirit. How easily we loose sight of this authority and try to do things in our strength, thinking we can engineer things. We need to seek the power of the Holy Spirit to be at work in our day and generation in reviving power.
Sunday 17 May 2020
Coronavirus Reflections #9
Last Sunday the prime minister made an announcement about the plans to reduce the restrictions of lockdown. The message was not altogether clear. However this week the first changes have been put in place. Anyone that can't work from home should go to work. We are now allowed to exercise as much as we like and drive to the place for exercise and recreation. You can also meet one person from outside your household for exercise or recreation outdoors but maintaining the 2m social distancing. There are plans for schools to return in June and shops to open in July.
It was lovely to meet with a friend for a walk this week. So nice to spend time in someones company.
I've been applying to become one of the Covid contact tracers. Lots of osteopaths are. The application process is quite inconsistent and there are lots of hiccups with the training but its not surprising with the rapid roll out. I'm still at the application stage. There is talk of osteopaths returning to practice in the next few weeks but with some strict PPE and cleansing procedures. It all seems very onerous.
In some ways this week has been hard. There is the reality that the distancing measures are going to be in place for a long time yet and although not unexpected it is still somehow hard to accept.
I had an all day meeting on Zoom this week. It worked well.
I'm continuing to learn lots of new pieces on the piano which is a nice distraction. I've actually enjoyed doing scales and exercises to improve my technical ability. I find it strange when the mind-body connection is not there for the fingers to do what I want them to but practice builds skills.
The furlough scheme has been extended to October. There have been different grants available for businesses and the self-employed. I have been eligible for two.
I'm continuing to study Corinthians enjoying the orchestral piece speaking of divisions and sinful practices in the Corinth church coming to a peak in acknowledging one anothers gifts and necessity as part of the body of Christ. The most important gift of all is love. This has been wonderful teaching that I have needed.
Last Sunday we enjoyed preaching from Psalm 18, the Galatians bible study - what a difficult book, and then from Acts in the week.
I thought it would be good to list some of the things I have been learning in lockdown - skipping double and single leg, working towards doing the splits, graded exposure cycling to limits, new piano pieces - about 6 now, the garden and the house are clean and tidy, studying Pleasing God, Corinthians and Proverbs, reading more books. I thought I would get into studying more Greek and Hebrew but haven't really got into that yet and I have dabbled in improvising on the piano but would like to do more. It's a blessing to have so much time for these things without commuting each day.
It was lovely to meet with a friend for a walk this week. So nice to spend time in someones company.
I've been applying to become one of the Covid contact tracers. Lots of osteopaths are. The application process is quite inconsistent and there are lots of hiccups with the training but its not surprising with the rapid roll out. I'm still at the application stage. There is talk of osteopaths returning to practice in the next few weeks but with some strict PPE and cleansing procedures. It all seems very onerous.
In some ways this week has been hard. There is the reality that the distancing measures are going to be in place for a long time yet and although not unexpected it is still somehow hard to accept.
I had an all day meeting on Zoom this week. It worked well.
I'm continuing to learn lots of new pieces on the piano which is a nice distraction. I've actually enjoyed doing scales and exercises to improve my technical ability. I find it strange when the mind-body connection is not there for the fingers to do what I want them to but practice builds skills.
The furlough scheme has been extended to October. There have been different grants available for businesses and the self-employed. I have been eligible for two.
I'm continuing to study Corinthians enjoying the orchestral piece speaking of divisions and sinful practices in the Corinth church coming to a peak in acknowledging one anothers gifts and necessity as part of the body of Christ. The most important gift of all is love. This has been wonderful teaching that I have needed.
Last Sunday we enjoyed preaching from Psalm 18, the Galatians bible study - what a difficult book, and then from Acts in the week.
I thought it would be good to list some of the things I have been learning in lockdown - skipping double and single leg, working towards doing the splits, graded exposure cycling to limits, new piano pieces - about 6 now, the garden and the house are clean and tidy, studying Pleasing God, Corinthians and Proverbs, reading more books. I thought I would get into studying more Greek and Hebrew but haven't really got into that yet and I have dabbled in improvising on the piano but would like to do more. It's a blessing to have so much time for these things without commuting each day.
Sunday 10 May 2020
Coronavirus Reflections #8
Another sunny week. The usual routine was broken up by a Friday bank holiday. May day was moved for the nation to commemorate 75 years since VE day. The celebrations and events were not as planned but many streets had gatherings. There was a 2 minute silence at 11, Churchill's speech was played at 3pm and the queen gave a speech at 9pm. My street had a socially distanced gathering in the evening, although some had been out most of the day. The bunting looks nice around the houses.
Last week I started some admin work for the drugs team, that finished on Monday as I completed the task. I have applied to be a contact tracer now. Clinics have been busy. Many people seem very appreciative of the telephone contact. I wonder how the health service will re-shape how it continues in the future.
Today the prime minister is going to make a speech about plans for coming out of lockdown. People are quite anxious to get back to normal life but there is a lot of fear around contracting the virus. Normal life will not be possible for a long-time but life cannot go on simply in lockdown.
Last Sunday we had our usual meetings for worship and bible study and I continued to enjoy Paul Washers teaching on Proverbs. A friend and I have got in the habit of working through a Bible quiz book for an hour on Sunday afternoon on the telephone. It is surprising how quickly the time goes by.
I've seen my parents a couple of times in the garden this week. It's nice to meet face to face but socially distanced talking can be difficult.
There are still a number of items missing in the supermarket - flour, eggs, baking products are usually low or out of stock. Covid related deaths continue to be in the hundreds each day sometimes 350, sometimes 650. We went over 30 000 deaths this week. The Nightingale hospital rapidly built in the Excel centre London was hardly used and this week has been stepped down but will not be packed up yet.
There are so many opportunities for online learning at the moment. Many organisations are offering their learning for free and there are loads of webinars. There is always so much to keep learning, even in my small field of work. Many are anxious about returning to clinical work - there is a lot of PPE requirements. It seems some may not return. It will be interesting to see the shape of the profession as we emerge from this and the future implications.
This week I was struck by a verse in Corinthians reminding us that we exist for God the Father and exist through Jesus Christ (1Cor 8:6). Life needs to be kept in perspective. So much of this life is futile. I always find it so solemn at funerals that no matter who you are, and what you have done, the end of this earthly life is the same - a wooden coffin. There is only one thing that is needful - to follow the Lord.
This week my resolve is to have a week of prayer for the church, preachers, leaders of the church and revival.
Last week I started some admin work for the drugs team, that finished on Monday as I completed the task. I have applied to be a contact tracer now. Clinics have been busy. Many people seem very appreciative of the telephone contact. I wonder how the health service will re-shape how it continues in the future.
Today the prime minister is going to make a speech about plans for coming out of lockdown. People are quite anxious to get back to normal life but there is a lot of fear around contracting the virus. Normal life will not be possible for a long-time but life cannot go on simply in lockdown.
Last Sunday we had our usual meetings for worship and bible study and I continued to enjoy Paul Washers teaching on Proverbs. A friend and I have got in the habit of working through a Bible quiz book for an hour on Sunday afternoon on the telephone. It is surprising how quickly the time goes by.
I've seen my parents a couple of times in the garden this week. It's nice to meet face to face but socially distanced talking can be difficult.
There are still a number of items missing in the supermarket - flour, eggs, baking products are usually low or out of stock. Covid related deaths continue to be in the hundreds each day sometimes 350, sometimes 650. We went over 30 000 deaths this week. The Nightingale hospital rapidly built in the Excel centre London was hardly used and this week has been stepped down but will not be packed up yet.
There are so many opportunities for online learning at the moment. Many organisations are offering their learning for free and there are loads of webinars. There is always so much to keep learning, even in my small field of work. Many are anxious about returning to clinical work - there is a lot of PPE requirements. It seems some may not return. It will be interesting to see the shape of the profession as we emerge from this and the future implications.
This week I was struck by a verse in Corinthians reminding us that we exist for God the Father and exist through Jesus Christ (1Cor 8:6). Life needs to be kept in perspective. So much of this life is futile. I always find it so solemn at funerals that no matter who you are, and what you have done, the end of this earthly life is the same - a wooden coffin. There is only one thing that is needful - to follow the Lord.
This week my resolve is to have a week of prayer for the church, preachers, leaders of the church and revival.
Sunday 3 May 2020
Coronavirus Reflections #7
'What do you have that you did not receive?' 1 Corinthians 4:7
These words have been a blessing to me this week. There is so much to be thankful and what a comfort it is to know that everything we have has been measured out by God in the right proportions, at the right time.
It has been a blessing this week to have communications from friends updating how they are getting on in the lockdown. I had a lovely conversation with a Christian friend earlier in the week. Some people are just so full of joy in the Lord. Yesterday I received a parcel from a missionary friend which was a great encouragement.
Last Sunday I enjoyed watching a talk about missionary work in Mombassa recorded for a Sunday school class. We had preaching from Psalms and the bible study from Galatians again. In the evening I enjoyed watching some of Paul Washer's talks on Proverbs. We also met on Tuesday with a message from a local pastor from the temptation of Jesus.
Last night the All Souls Prom Praise was online to watch. It was lovely to hear some rousing hymns. There was an amazing pianist which caused me to marvel that the Lord created us with such amazing potential for creative ability and pleasure.
We held our quarterly osteopaths meeting on Zoom. It was good to have a chat with colleagues. I was humbled to realise that I was the only one still working. It is moving to see the deep effect the coronavirus has had on clinic life and the understandable distress of the practitioners. There were positive plans towards getting started again though.
It has been wet a lot of this week. It has done the garden good but more challenging for people in lockdown.
The prime minister returned to week and his partner gave birth to their son. The prime minister is gifted in inspiring confidence and yet showing compassion for the situation. There is generally some unrest in the nation about how we are going to get out of this lockdown situation - the schools are still shut and most people are either furloughed at home or working from home. It has been promised that plans will be revealed next week.
I started some more work this week doing some admin for another team in the trust. It is good for me to have a purpose each day. I've almost finished all the possible spring cleaning around the house.
It's good to have time for reflection and other pursuits. I've now learned 3 new piano pieces and am continuing to enjoy exercising regularly. I completed the bible study course on Pleasing God which I found very helpful. I've started studying Corinthians now. I find I get computer fatigue so it is nice to just use pen and paper to study.
I set up a tablet for my 95 year old friend to be able to watch sermons. She received it this week so hopefully she will get on alright. I may have said before how impressed I am at older friends embracing technology and their resilient spirit coming to the fore.
A man called Captain Tom completed a walking challenge in his garden in Marston and raised over 30 million for the NHS. He celebrated his 100th birthday this week so people sang happy birthday at the Thursday evening clap.
I stayed in all of this week after an upset tummy last weekend. It didn't really make much difference apart from I missed being able to get out for a walk. I'm hoping the step down plans will enable those of us on our own to be able to meet up with someone else.
There is much to be thankful for - friends, family, work, church, access to so many resources, peace and safety, health and so much more. We have all things in Christ.
These words have been a blessing to me this week. There is so much to be thankful and what a comfort it is to know that everything we have has been measured out by God in the right proportions, at the right time.
It has been a blessing this week to have communications from friends updating how they are getting on in the lockdown. I had a lovely conversation with a Christian friend earlier in the week. Some people are just so full of joy in the Lord. Yesterday I received a parcel from a missionary friend which was a great encouragement.
Last Sunday I enjoyed watching a talk about missionary work in Mombassa recorded for a Sunday school class. We had preaching from Psalms and the bible study from Galatians again. In the evening I enjoyed watching some of Paul Washer's talks on Proverbs. We also met on Tuesday with a message from a local pastor from the temptation of Jesus.
Last night the All Souls Prom Praise was online to watch. It was lovely to hear some rousing hymns. There was an amazing pianist which caused me to marvel that the Lord created us with such amazing potential for creative ability and pleasure.
We held our quarterly osteopaths meeting on Zoom. It was good to have a chat with colleagues. I was humbled to realise that I was the only one still working. It is moving to see the deep effect the coronavirus has had on clinic life and the understandable distress of the practitioners. There were positive plans towards getting started again though.
It has been wet a lot of this week. It has done the garden good but more challenging for people in lockdown.
The prime minister returned to week and his partner gave birth to their son. The prime minister is gifted in inspiring confidence and yet showing compassion for the situation. There is generally some unrest in the nation about how we are going to get out of this lockdown situation - the schools are still shut and most people are either furloughed at home or working from home. It has been promised that plans will be revealed next week.
I started some more work this week doing some admin for another team in the trust. It is good for me to have a purpose each day. I've almost finished all the possible spring cleaning around the house.
It's good to have time for reflection and other pursuits. I've now learned 3 new piano pieces and am continuing to enjoy exercising regularly. I completed the bible study course on Pleasing God which I found very helpful. I've started studying Corinthians now. I find I get computer fatigue so it is nice to just use pen and paper to study.
I set up a tablet for my 95 year old friend to be able to watch sermons. She received it this week so hopefully she will get on alright. I may have said before how impressed I am at older friends embracing technology and their resilient spirit coming to the fore.
A man called Captain Tom completed a walking challenge in his garden in Marston and raised over 30 million for the NHS. He celebrated his 100th birthday this week so people sang happy birthday at the Thursday evening clap.
I stayed in all of this week after an upset tummy last weekend. It didn't really make much difference apart from I missed being able to get out for a walk. I'm hoping the step down plans will enable those of us on our own to be able to meet up with someone else.
There is much to be thankful for - friends, family, work, church, access to so many resources, peace and safety, health and so much more. We have all things in Christ.
Sunday 26 April 2020
Coronavirus Reflections #6
The Lord has been very kind in continuing to give us beautiful weather during lockdown. It makes a big difference that people can make use of their outdoor spaces.
There seems to be a restlessness developing as some people are becoming impatient to return to work. The government has not given plans for coming out of lockdown yet. Hopefully they will make some announcements next week before they loose control and the will of the people. The primeminister is due to return to work on Monday so maybe he will lead some clearer announcements.
On Thursdays more and more people come out of their houses at 8pm to clap for the NHS. This week a lady in the road opposite came out and played 'Somewhere over the rainbow' on her Cello which people seemed to enjoy.
I've continued to be productive around the house cleaning windows and painting the fence. I also started studying 1 Corinthians. I wonder how far I will get before we are able to socialise again. It's been good to spend more time in prayer and more intercessory prayer.
I started with some gastric symptoms yesterday which could be Covid so 7 days of isolation now for me, not that it will make any difference.
Last Sunday we had a good day with preaching in the morning, Galatians bible study in the afternoon and I watched a short sermon in the evening. I found 3 lots of full online services was exhausting and was pleased to read an article this week that explained that it is a common phenomena to be exhausted after lots of online meetings.
On Tuesday we had a missionary meeting on Zoom which was very interesting.
Yesterday I collected my couch from my clinic so the room is all empty now and that is the end of the clinic in that setting. The government is giving grants to businesses who do not pay business rates - mine was confirmed yesterday.
I feel in the routine with this lockdown now - a daily routine incorporating exercise and piano practise and evening phone calls. The supermarket distancing is becoming normal. It stills slightly daring to go out anywhere at the moment!
I keep feeling so thankful for the way the Lord has blessed me with providing work, a few months ago my circumstances would have been so different. I'm thankful for the rest from commuting. Thankful for a garden to enjoy and nice places to walk. Thankful for a loving family and friends. Thankful for a certain hope and a glorious inheritance to look forward to.
There seems to be a restlessness developing as some people are becoming impatient to return to work. The government has not given plans for coming out of lockdown yet. Hopefully they will make some announcements next week before they loose control and the will of the people. The primeminister is due to return to work on Monday so maybe he will lead some clearer announcements.
On Thursdays more and more people come out of their houses at 8pm to clap for the NHS. This week a lady in the road opposite came out and played 'Somewhere over the rainbow' on her Cello which people seemed to enjoy.
I've continued to be productive around the house cleaning windows and painting the fence. I also started studying 1 Corinthians. I wonder how far I will get before we are able to socialise again. It's been good to spend more time in prayer and more intercessory prayer.
I started with some gastric symptoms yesterday which could be Covid so 7 days of isolation now for me, not that it will make any difference.
Last Sunday we had a good day with preaching in the morning, Galatians bible study in the afternoon and I watched a short sermon in the evening. I found 3 lots of full online services was exhausting and was pleased to read an article this week that explained that it is a common phenomena to be exhausted after lots of online meetings.
On Tuesday we had a missionary meeting on Zoom which was very interesting.
Yesterday I collected my couch from my clinic so the room is all empty now and that is the end of the clinic in that setting. The government is giving grants to businesses who do not pay business rates - mine was confirmed yesterday.
I feel in the routine with this lockdown now - a daily routine incorporating exercise and piano practise and evening phone calls. The supermarket distancing is becoming normal. It stills slightly daring to go out anywhere at the moment!
I keep feeling so thankful for the way the Lord has blessed me with providing work, a few months ago my circumstances would have been so different. I'm thankful for the rest from commuting. Thankful for a garden to enjoy and nice places to walk. Thankful for a loving family and friends. Thankful for a certain hope and a glorious inheritance to look forward to.
Sunday 19 April 2020
Coronavirus Reflections #5
A verse came on the daily calendar this week which it has been enjoyable to meditate more on:
to console the mourners in Zion—
to console the mourners in Zion—
'to give them a crown of beauty for ashes,
the oil of joy for mourning,
and a garment of praise for a spirit of despair.
So they will be called oaks of righteousness,
the planting of the LORD, that He may be glorified'
Isaiah 61:3
I was particularly struck by the garment of praise and the oaks of righteousness.
Last Sunday was Easter and we had a sermon on the resurrection, we also met to study the book of Galatians.
On Easter Monday I planted some seeds in the garden so it will nice to see them grow and develop over the next few weeks if all goes well.
This week the prime minister has come out of hospital, thanks be to God, and is recovering at home. Our former pastor went to glory at the beginning of the week. Our prayer meeting reflected on his passing.
The bluebells are looking lovely in the woods. It is a blessing to have nice places to walk so nearby.
I've continued working by telephone all week, it seems to work very well and many people have good motivation for exercise at the moment with plenty of time and good weather.
It's strange really some things seem to be getting easier - the regular daily routine, the method for going around the supermarket doing two lots of shopping, the routine of evening phone calls but somehow this week has seemed more difficult for the lack of face to face interaction. It was disappointing but not unexpected that the lockdown has been extended for another 3 weeks.
Many churches are taking advantage of online opportunities, running short evangelistic courses, seeing more people at their meetings, online Sunday schools and holiday clubs. There have been several online sermons and blogs about 'Don't waste your lockdown'. There is more time for Bible study and prayer but there are also many distractions. How wonderful it would be to see a bright shining church emerge from this full of zeal and no longer lukewarm.
Sunday 12 April 2020
Coronavirus Reflections #4
It has been a beautiful sunny week. This lovely Easter weather makes me think back to the lovely sunshine we enjoyed a year ago at Easter when I was camping.
How much of life we never realised was a privelege - to go in and out as we please, to freely enjoy the countryside, meeting with friends, to be able to sit beside my mother on the sofa, gathering to worship God together.
Last Sunday we again met on Zoom with a visiting preacher speaking on Palm Sunday, then an afternoon Bible study on Galatians. In the evening I went to another church by Zoom with a sermon on the Philippian jailer. I find Zoom meetings much easier to be a part of. Watching youtube on my own it seems much easier to be distracted and loose concentration somehow. The queen addressed the nation in the evening, only the fourth time she has done this in extraordinary times.
On Good Friday I watched a service in Bangor at the same time as my friend and then we had a Zoom meeting in the evening.
We've had the joy of seeing wonderful answers to prayer for healing. The prime minister was in intensive care for a few days this week with the virus. Many in the nation prayed. The Lord has restored His health. Another friend went into hospital but was very soon sent home to continue recovering. Hundreds are dieing each day in the UK and several nursing homes have a lot of cases. The government continues it's daily briefings.
This week I've worked at home all week. I'm glad to be able to speak to others on the phone and it's good to have purpose in the day. It's already noticeable though that the work Whatsapp group is much quieter. I emptied my clinic room on Friday moving out of the premises I rented.
I've seen Tesco's with huge long queues going round the car park and down the road this week. I was thankful to choose a time with no queue. Most things are in stock now although there are very few eggs - the only ones left were Duck eggs.
I've been getting lots of household cleaning done and jobs in the garden. I feel concern though about the need to spend more time with the Lord and learn the lessons of this situation.
Today is Easter Sunday - we remember our Risen Lord - the same, yesterday, today and forever.
And looking up, they saw that the stone had been rolled back—it was very large. Mark 16:4 Let's look up and see our God and what he will do to bring glory to His name.
How much of life we never realised was a privelege - to go in and out as we please, to freely enjoy the countryside, meeting with friends, to be able to sit beside my mother on the sofa, gathering to worship God together.
Last Sunday we again met on Zoom with a visiting preacher speaking on Palm Sunday, then an afternoon Bible study on Galatians. In the evening I went to another church by Zoom with a sermon on the Philippian jailer. I find Zoom meetings much easier to be a part of. Watching youtube on my own it seems much easier to be distracted and loose concentration somehow. The queen addressed the nation in the evening, only the fourth time she has done this in extraordinary times.
On Good Friday I watched a service in Bangor at the same time as my friend and then we had a Zoom meeting in the evening.
We've had the joy of seeing wonderful answers to prayer for healing. The prime minister was in intensive care for a few days this week with the virus. Many in the nation prayed. The Lord has restored His health. Another friend went into hospital but was very soon sent home to continue recovering. Hundreds are dieing each day in the UK and several nursing homes have a lot of cases. The government continues it's daily briefings.
This week I've worked at home all week. I'm glad to be able to speak to others on the phone and it's good to have purpose in the day. It's already noticeable though that the work Whatsapp group is much quieter. I emptied my clinic room on Friday moving out of the premises I rented.
I've seen Tesco's with huge long queues going round the car park and down the road this week. I was thankful to choose a time with no queue. Most things are in stock now although there are very few eggs - the only ones left were Duck eggs.
I've been getting lots of household cleaning done and jobs in the garden. I feel concern though about the need to spend more time with the Lord and learn the lessons of this situation.
Today is Easter Sunday - we remember our Risen Lord - the same, yesterday, today and forever.
And looking up, they saw that the stone had been rolled back—it was very large. Mark 16:4 Let's look up and see our God and what he will do to bring glory to His name.
Sunday 5 April 2020
Coronavirus Reflections #3
How quickly we adapt as humans. This isolation is becoming a new way of life, not that I would like it to continue any longer than necessary, it is so unnatural. God created us to be social beings and living in communities, not isolated ones and families. I hope we never forget the blessing of being able to be together after this.
Last Sunday morning service went well on Zoom with a remote preacher, we managed the same again on Tuesday evening. Isaiah 26 on Sunday and Peter being released from prison in answer to prayer on Tuesday. It's good to be reminded of the Sovereignty and trustworthiness of our God and that he answers prayer.
The reminder of the frailty of life and seriousnsess of the virus has continued this week. Daily deaths have been increasing rapidly. A man in his 60s from my friends church died yesterday. A lot of medical staff have died.
This week I went to a 21st birthday party on Zoom. I've also transitioned to working from home, covering patient lists by telephone.There have been a number of issues getting the IT set-up but the IT department has been overwhelmed by demand.
The shops are laid out for distancing with a new one-way system around Tesco. There was no queue to get in when I went, more evidence that things are settling into more of a routine.
Although the isolation is becoming more routine I feel it is important to use the time to seek the Lord and plead for His name to be glorified through this and the protection of many lifes temporarily and eternally. When this first happened I was so moved by how the finger of the Lord had gone out against us, I pray I wouldn't become hardened to that conviction.
The week has ended with beautiful sunshine so it has been lovely to be out in the garden. This morning is beautiful ready to worship the Lord on this Palm Sunday.
Last Sunday morning service went well on Zoom with a remote preacher, we managed the same again on Tuesday evening. Isaiah 26 on Sunday and Peter being released from prison in answer to prayer on Tuesday. It's good to be reminded of the Sovereignty and trustworthiness of our God and that he answers prayer.
The reminder of the frailty of life and seriousnsess of the virus has continued this week. Daily deaths have been increasing rapidly. A man in his 60s from my friends church died yesterday. A lot of medical staff have died.
This week I went to a 21st birthday party on Zoom. I've also transitioned to working from home, covering patient lists by telephone.There have been a number of issues getting the IT set-up but the IT department has been overwhelmed by demand.
The shops are laid out for distancing with a new one-way system around Tesco. There was no queue to get in when I went, more evidence that things are settling into more of a routine.
Although the isolation is becoming more routine I feel it is important to use the time to seek the Lord and plead for His name to be glorified through this and the protection of many lifes temporarily and eternally. When this first happened I was so moved by how the finger of the Lord had gone out against us, I pray I wouldn't become hardened to that conviction.
The week has ended with beautiful sunshine so it has been lovely to be out in the garden. This morning is beautiful ready to worship the Lord on this Palm Sunday.
Sunday 29 March 2020
Coronavirus Reflextions #2
Another week has quickly past with more of what we could never have imagined becoming the norm. On Monday the country was put into 'lockdown'. Everyone must stay at home. Only essential journeys and work are allowed. You can go out for one form of exercise per day.
Sunny weather has been helpful giving opportunity to spend time out in the garden and not feel so restricted.
Last Sunday was difficult, my eyes kept overflowing contemplating the new routine of Sundays alone but with periods of online connection. The service worked well on Zoom and there were other live sermons to listen to in the evening. It is good we have the technology to be able to join together. We used it for Tuesday evening prayer meeting and a social time on Thursday evening.
We've been continuing with work but just telephone consultations now. I got a laptop on Friday to be able to work from home. The service is being reorganised as the physio department will soon be made in to a ward and many staff need to go out to rehab people in the community and get them out of the hospital.
Lots more people are coming down with the virus. It feels close when you actually know people with the virus and some key public figures such as Boris Johnson and Prince Charles have got the virus. Deaths and number of cases are rising quite rapidly now. The government is building large temporary hospitals in London, Birmingham and Manchester.
America has had a rapid rise of cases this week and Italy and Spain are still seeing many more deaths. The virus is affecting all the world. I think the stats this week were that a quarter of the world is in lockdown - Surely this is the hand of God.
The supermarkets are still very busy with restricted numbers entering at a time. This leads to long queues outside all spaced out by 2m. I queued for 25 minutes to get into Tesco at 6am yesterday!
It's amazing how quickly we adapt, getting used to online Sunday school and church and speaking with friends and relatives virtually. It's a good second best but never as good as being present in the same room or face to face.
I've been enjoying having time to put my 'house in order' by tidying up paperwork in the office. Somehow with so many deaths expected it makes me feel like I need to be organised if anyone was left to deal with my estate.
I've been reading a book by Martin Lloyd Jones on Psalm 73 called Faith on Trial which is very helpful. I personally feel challenged to truly make the Lord the priority in my life and to value those things I have neglected - prayer, the gathering of the church, hearing the word preached, opportunities to serve. Praying that the Lord will save many through this and bring glory to his name.
I was thinking this morning that apart from the eseentials how little work will be going on today, the Lord's day - it will be more of a day of rest around the world than it has been for many years. May that cause many to hear the word preached and be saved.
Sunny weather has been helpful giving opportunity to spend time out in the garden and not feel so restricted.
Last Sunday was difficult, my eyes kept overflowing contemplating the new routine of Sundays alone but with periods of online connection. The service worked well on Zoom and there were other live sermons to listen to in the evening. It is good we have the technology to be able to join together. We used it for Tuesday evening prayer meeting and a social time on Thursday evening.
We've been continuing with work but just telephone consultations now. I got a laptop on Friday to be able to work from home. The service is being reorganised as the physio department will soon be made in to a ward and many staff need to go out to rehab people in the community and get them out of the hospital.
Lots more people are coming down with the virus. It feels close when you actually know people with the virus and some key public figures such as Boris Johnson and Prince Charles have got the virus. Deaths and number of cases are rising quite rapidly now. The government is building large temporary hospitals in London, Birmingham and Manchester.
America has had a rapid rise of cases this week and Italy and Spain are still seeing many more deaths. The virus is affecting all the world. I think the stats this week were that a quarter of the world is in lockdown - Surely this is the hand of God.
The supermarkets are still very busy with restricted numbers entering at a time. This leads to long queues outside all spaced out by 2m. I queued for 25 minutes to get into Tesco at 6am yesterday!
It's amazing how quickly we adapt, getting used to online Sunday school and church and speaking with friends and relatives virtually. It's a good second best but never as good as being present in the same room or face to face.
I've been enjoying having time to put my 'house in order' by tidying up paperwork in the office. Somehow with so many deaths expected it makes me feel like I need to be organised if anyone was left to deal with my estate.
I've been reading a book by Martin Lloyd Jones on Psalm 73 called Faith on Trial which is very helpful. I personally feel challenged to truly make the Lord the priority in my life and to value those things I have neglected - prayer, the gathering of the church, hearing the word preached, opportunities to serve. Praying that the Lord will save many through this and bring glory to his name.
I was thinking this morning that apart from the eseentials how little work will be going on today, the Lord's day - it will be more of a day of rest around the world than it has been for many years. May that cause many to hear the word preached and be saved.
Sunday 22 March 2020
Coronavirus Reflections #1
What a week. Coronavirus has led to a life that we could never have imagined. 2020 was always spoken about as a futuristic time when life would be so different and it certainly feels like we are in a surreal world today.
There isn't a home in the country that has not had normal life interrupted. I'm restarting this blog partly as a way to process all that is going on and also I think it is important to record these events in practical and spiritual terms.
The virus has been around for about 2.5 months, initially starting in China. As the problem escalated and spread to the UK I had little realisation of the immense impact it would have on our lives.
Last Sunday we were at church joking with our older friends about the potential that they would be quaranteened. Little did we realise that by the end of the week schools, restaurants, pubs, cafes and gyms would all be closed and as many people as possible working from home. There are no GCSEs or A levels this year. Students have suddenly finished their degree courses, children suddenly finished school. No time for goodbyes.
Many of my colleagues have closed their osteopathic practices this week. I closed mine yesterday and will be moving out of the office space in the next few days.
Quickly we have had to embrace technology. Meetings have been held online assessing the significant impact of the virus on professional life. Patient appointments are all carried out by telephone. The church now has an active Whatsapp group and this morning we will have church on Zoom, some of the children have attended a virtual Sunday school. I no longer see my parents face to face as I used to nearly daily. Now I see them on a small screen. They, like so many others, are in isolation keeping safe and relying on others to bring their food and supply their needs.
How thankful I am that this is in a generation where we have the technology to remain connected.
I am a high risk carrier as I mix with so many people through continuing to go to work so I generally stay in isolation at home so as not to become a spreader.
I'm not sure the reality has kicked in about how serious this situation is. Worldwide the problem is rapidly escalating. Our deaths are almost exactly mapping the numbers in Italy but 2 weeks behind. Italy is struggling to cope and some awful stories are coming out of the health departments there.
The NHS is rapidly recruiting the retired, non-practising and final year students and acquiring as much space as possible to prepare for what seems an inevitable overwhelming demand on resources.
The health and science advisors have tried to hold back the spread of the virus by restricting movement. This strategy has been used with Italy but they are still in a terrible situation. The chancellor is pouring money into society in a way never seen before to help people to continue to afford to live. So many have lost work.
It is expected this situation could continue for months.This virtual, restricted way of life will soon become the norm.
This is a war situation. A worldwide war. Not country against country but every country against a virus. Many of us are being called up to serve our country and fellow citizens in the NHS. Many are being asked to preserve life simply by staying at home.
This is an unseen enemy. You don't know who are the asymptomatic spreaders. You don't know who will be most severely affected.
We need to respond with the seriousness that we would respond to war. Obeying the advice given to us to socially distance and isolate, not taking any risks. Praying for the safety of one another - those at risk, those serving on the frontlines. We know that many loved ones will be taken in the next few weeks.
I've wept several times this week - moved to see people closing their businesses, overwhelmed by the restrictions needed on society, stories of lives taken, sacrificies made and overwhelmed health workers - in summary, humbled before the hand of Almighty God.
I have been convicted about how glibly I read in the Bible about times when God judged the people and many died. Living in one of those situations is a harsh reality. In recent times I've been greatly concerned about the poor preaching in the churches and the lack of prayer and zeal in the churches and the great darkness in this land polluting the minds of young and old. The church had become lukewarm. God has acted. Freedoms have been removed, lives have and will be taken, life will never be the same. Yet still people mock the living God.
I've been thinking about how John the baptist and Jesus had that message they came with 'Repent'. My mind has also gone to the prayer of Daniel 9, crying out to God to have mercy. In my quiet times I've been reading Deuteronomy and we see again and again how the Lord God desires hearts of obedience. This generation has been disobedient and profaned all of God's holy law. As individuals, a church and nations we need to turn to God in repentance and faith and cry out to Him for mercy.
I enter into another week not able to imagine the course that it may take but trusting on the Lord God who is always with me and has promised me eternity with Him.
Daniel 9:3-19
Then I turned my face to the Lord God, seeking him by prayer and pleas for mercy with fasting and sackcloth and ashes. I prayed to the Lord my God and made confession, saying, “O Lord, the great and awesome God, who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments, we have sinned and done wrong and acted wickedly and rebelled, turning aside from your commandments and rules. We have not listened to your servants the prophets, who spoke in your name to our kings, our princes, and our fathers, and to all the people of the land. To you, O Lord, belongs righteousness, but to us open shame, as at this day, to the men of Judah, to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and to all Israel, those who are near and those who are far away, in all the lands to which you have driven them, because of the treachery that they have committed against you. To us, O Lord, belongs open shame, to our kings, to our princes, and to our fathers, because we have sinned against you. To the Lord our God belong mercy and forgiveness, for we have rebelled against him and have not obeyed the voice of the Lord our God by walking in his laws, which he set before us by his servants the prophets. All Israel has transgressed your law and turned aside, refusing to obey your voice. And the curse and oath that are written in the Law of Moses the servant of God have been poured out upon us, because we have sinned against him. He has confirmed his words, which he spoke against us and against our rulers who ruled us, by bringing upon us a great calamity. For under the whole heaven there has not been done anything like what has been done against Jerusalem. As it is written in the Law of Moses, all this calamity has come upon us; yet we have not entreated the favor of the Lord our God, turning from our iniquities and gaining insight by your truth. Therefore the Lord has kept ready the calamity and has brought it upon us, for the Lord our God is righteous in all the works that he has done, and we have not obeyed his voice. And now, O Lord our God, who brought your people out of the land of Egypt with a mighty hand, and have made a name for yourself, as at this day, we have sinned, we have done wickedly.
There isn't a home in the country that has not had normal life interrupted. I'm restarting this blog partly as a way to process all that is going on and also I think it is important to record these events in practical and spiritual terms.
The virus has been around for about 2.5 months, initially starting in China. As the problem escalated and spread to the UK I had little realisation of the immense impact it would have on our lives.
Last Sunday we were at church joking with our older friends about the potential that they would be quaranteened. Little did we realise that by the end of the week schools, restaurants, pubs, cafes and gyms would all be closed and as many people as possible working from home. There are no GCSEs or A levels this year. Students have suddenly finished their degree courses, children suddenly finished school. No time for goodbyes.
Many of my colleagues have closed their osteopathic practices this week. I closed mine yesterday and will be moving out of the office space in the next few days.
Quickly we have had to embrace technology. Meetings have been held online assessing the significant impact of the virus on professional life. Patient appointments are all carried out by telephone. The church now has an active Whatsapp group and this morning we will have church on Zoom, some of the children have attended a virtual Sunday school. I no longer see my parents face to face as I used to nearly daily. Now I see them on a small screen. They, like so many others, are in isolation keeping safe and relying on others to bring their food and supply their needs.
How thankful I am that this is in a generation where we have the technology to remain connected.
I am a high risk carrier as I mix with so many people through continuing to go to work so I generally stay in isolation at home so as not to become a spreader.
I'm not sure the reality has kicked in about how serious this situation is. Worldwide the problem is rapidly escalating. Our deaths are almost exactly mapping the numbers in Italy but 2 weeks behind. Italy is struggling to cope and some awful stories are coming out of the health departments there.
The NHS is rapidly recruiting the retired, non-practising and final year students and acquiring as much space as possible to prepare for what seems an inevitable overwhelming demand on resources.
The health and science advisors have tried to hold back the spread of the virus by restricting movement. This strategy has been used with Italy but they are still in a terrible situation. The chancellor is pouring money into society in a way never seen before to help people to continue to afford to live. So many have lost work.
It is expected this situation could continue for months.This virtual, restricted way of life will soon become the norm.
This is a war situation. A worldwide war. Not country against country but every country against a virus. Many of us are being called up to serve our country and fellow citizens in the NHS. Many are being asked to preserve life simply by staying at home.
This is an unseen enemy. You don't know who are the asymptomatic spreaders. You don't know who will be most severely affected.
We need to respond with the seriousness that we would respond to war. Obeying the advice given to us to socially distance and isolate, not taking any risks. Praying for the safety of one another - those at risk, those serving on the frontlines. We know that many loved ones will be taken in the next few weeks.
I've wept several times this week - moved to see people closing their businesses, overwhelmed by the restrictions needed on society, stories of lives taken, sacrificies made and overwhelmed health workers - in summary, humbled before the hand of Almighty God.
I have been convicted about how glibly I read in the Bible about times when God judged the people and many died. Living in one of those situations is a harsh reality. In recent times I've been greatly concerned about the poor preaching in the churches and the lack of prayer and zeal in the churches and the great darkness in this land polluting the minds of young and old. The church had become lukewarm. God has acted. Freedoms have been removed, lives have and will be taken, life will never be the same. Yet still people mock the living God.
I've been thinking about how John the baptist and Jesus had that message they came with 'Repent'. My mind has also gone to the prayer of Daniel 9, crying out to God to have mercy. In my quiet times I've been reading Deuteronomy and we see again and again how the Lord God desires hearts of obedience. This generation has been disobedient and profaned all of God's holy law. As individuals, a church and nations we need to turn to God in repentance and faith and cry out to Him for mercy.
I enter into another week not able to imagine the course that it may take but trusting on the Lord God who is always with me and has promised me eternity with Him.
Daniel 9:3-19
Then I turned my face to the Lord God, seeking him by prayer and pleas for mercy with fasting and sackcloth and ashes. I prayed to the Lord my God and made confession, saying, “O Lord, the great and awesome God, who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments, we have sinned and done wrong and acted wickedly and rebelled, turning aside from your commandments and rules. We have not listened to your servants the prophets, who spoke in your name to our kings, our princes, and our fathers, and to all the people of the land. To you, O Lord, belongs righteousness, but to us open shame, as at this day, to the men of Judah, to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and to all Israel, those who are near and those who are far away, in all the lands to which you have driven them, because of the treachery that they have committed against you. To us, O Lord, belongs open shame, to our kings, to our princes, and to our fathers, because we have sinned against you. To the Lord our God belong mercy and forgiveness, for we have rebelled against him and have not obeyed the voice of the Lord our God by walking in his laws, which he set before us by his servants the prophets. All Israel has transgressed your law and turned aside, refusing to obey your voice. And the curse and oath that are written in the Law of Moses the servant of God have been poured out upon us, because we have sinned against him. He has confirmed his words, which he spoke against us and against our rulers who ruled us, by bringing upon us a great calamity. For under the whole heaven there has not been done anything like what has been done against Jerusalem. As it is written in the Law of Moses, all this calamity has come upon us; yet we have not entreated the favor of the Lord our God, turning from our iniquities and gaining insight by your truth. Therefore the Lord has kept ready the calamity and has brought it upon us, for the Lord our God is righteous in all the works that he has done, and we have not obeyed his voice. And now, O Lord our God, who brought your people out of the land of Egypt with a mighty hand, and have made a name for yourself, as at this day, we have sinned, we have done wickedly.
“O
Lord, according to all your righteous acts, let your anger and your
wrath turn away from your city Jerusalem, your holy hill, because for
our sins, and for the iniquities of our fathers, Jerusalem and your
people have become a byword among all who are around us. Now therefore, O our God, listen to the prayer of your servant and to his pleas for mercy, and for your own sake, O Lord, make your face to shine upon your sanctuary, which is desolate. O
my God, incline your ear and hear. Open your eyes and see our
desolations, and the city that is called by your name. For we do not
present our pleas before you because of our righteousness, but because
of your great mercy. O
Lord, hear; O Lord, forgive. O Lord, pay attention and act. Delay not,
for your own sake, O my God, because your city and your people are
called by your name.”
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