7 Ways to Rebuild Community after COVID
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We have all experienced separation and disconnectedness to some degree over the past year and half. Some people naturally jumped back into friendships and activities, but for others it has been more of a challenge. Today, I would like to share seven practical ways in which we can rebuild community after COVID.
Consider those who may have lost a lot of their friends because of the virus. No matter what age you are, it is a beautiful gift to show someone else love and give them your time. Is there someone who is elderly, sick, or grieving who you can connect with now? Think about people who may have had to be very isolated or lost loved ones last year and did not have the same support. You can visit them, play games, tell stories, and encourage them in unique ways that shows them that they are seen.
Never underestimate the effectiveness of prayer. Do you need friends? Are you feeling alone? Talk to God about it. He is our ultimate best friend and He is with us always. He understands everything that we go through. There have been times in my life when I have specifically prayed for the Lord to send me community or a friend. He always answered those prayers. It may take time, but continue to pour your heart out to God. He knows your needs and He knows your desires. Then, when you see community unfold, you can glorify Him all the more.
I know you are hearing this from every pastor in the world, but it is true. We were made to do life as the body of Christ. Virtual church is sufficient when needed and there is no shame to those for health or viable reasons to be apart from the church. However, getting back to a regular weekly attendance in person is vital to our spiritual growth and connection with others. I remember being back in a room with many people worshiping again. The gift of freely praising God in a country that allows it is a privilege enough. However, the joy of glorifying the Lord as His Bride and being reminded of our commissioning is important. When we return, we remember that great gift to honor God in this way and the blessing of being a part of something greater than ourselves with others.
These are just a few ways to rebuild community after COVID. I am sure that there are many other great ideas. If you have a thought, try it out and see how you can grow in friendships again. The word rebuild in Webster’s Dictionary means, “To restore to a previous state” or “to build again.” It is ok to realized that something has been broken or lost in this virus. It is realistic to understand that your community will not be back to the way it was overnight. To restore and build again takes time. This is a process that if we undergo with bravery and joyful anticipation, we can see the work of God. He is the One who brings light out of the darkness.
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Related Resource: Listen to our FREE podcast, Reframed: The Power of Perspective. In each episode, Carley provides practical techniques for identifying and reframing negative thinking patterns. Listen to an episode below, and check out all of our episodes on LifeAudio.com.
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