As our nation is in the midst of a pandemic that poses a daunting threat to every fabric of this existence we know as life, we are faced once again with leaders offering “their thoughts and prayers” in response to the lives that have been lost. As I reflect on past disturbing tragedies that have affected so many lives (mass public shootings, 9/11, race relations, and tension between minority communities and law enforcement), I am also deeply troubled by this trend of “thoughts and prayers” being extended on behalf of the families and in the name of caring and religious posturing. And many have taken to social media to express their disdain for this hollow offer of sympathy and religious piety.
To some degree I can understand why people are so up in arms (but not arms lifted in prayer) when they hear our elected officials offer such trite and tired reactions to human tragedy. For starters, it seems as if the offering of “thoughts and prayers” is just a code phrase for “here we go again, having to be politically correct before the cameras”. People are wanting to see real change and are weary of hearing about the “thoughts and prayers” offered in the aftermath of senseless, preventable tragedies. I am thankful for the serious and urgent response to the COVID-19 pandemic by our leaders, officials, and medical personnel. There is much to be learned about how different our response has been compared to other challenges we’ve encountered as a nation.
There is a united movement and effort towards a solution to a very ominous problem. And I believe there is a real sense of thoughtfulness and prayerfulness being promoted everywhere from social distancing to social media. Genuine thoughtfulness and sincere prayer can get much accomplished. Because at the end of the day, verbal sentiment if not accompanied by acts of care is useless.
I have identified three ways that can be most helpful and useful during this time:
- Be present and available. Nothing shows thoughtfulness more than just being present with people. Even during this time, a text message, phone call or video chat with very few words spoken can go a long way in demonstrating that you are really thinking of someone.
- Look for the needs you can meet. Jesus saw the crowds and their desperation for healing, and he responded by meeting their needs.
- Offer to pray with people real time. When people know and experience your care and concern, then it is appropriate and very powerful to offer to pray for them and with them, which I think is very thoughtful.
As we continue to navigate this new normal, let us be alert to opportunities to serve other families and people in our communities with thoughtfulness and prayerfulness.
