Sabbath Devotional :: Succor

As we continue to stay at home all over the country for COVID-19, many thoughts run through my mind. Many of us look at the isolation negatively at times.

We miss the touch of loved ones — those handshakes at church or hugs from friends. We miss the freedom of travel and the ability to enjoy family and friends across the country. Many deal with becoming instant homeschoolers. Personally, we had looked forward to more travel, attending sealings, sporting events, and more. Those plans are on pause. For most, we are isolated in bubbles. We are safe at home, antsy for our norms. For far too many, jobs are gone, and the ability to make ends meet has vanished. There are those who are on the dangerous frontlines to keep the rest of us safe. Left alone to our own machinations, it can be overwhelming. But we cannot lose hope.

My thoughts center around what we can do to make these negatives bearable and what we can do to contribute positive vibes and actions.

As members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we received wonderful counsel from our church leaders earlier this month. Follow their counsel. President Eyring said we can “become a vital part in preparing the world for [Christ’s] coming.” Elder McCune said “we are not spared challenges.” President Nelson said we are to recognize the whisperings of the Holy Ghost, and we will receive additional power to deal with problems.

Additionally, we were invited to participate in the special worldwide fast on Good Friday. I loved reading how so many, regardless of religious practice or faith, were eager to participate. Our grown son spoke of how he and his coworkers in Utah felt eager to participate. In our multigenerational household, even our six-year-old grandson missed breakfast to participate. That fast strengthened our faith.

We see the curve flattening in hard-hit areas like New York. This target is so important. This allows our healthcare providers and hospitals to have the time and resources they need to not be overcome.

What more can we do?

Because of unemployment, food banks are reaching all-time highs in providing foodstuffs for those in need. They continue to need financial contributions. Some of us can do that; others can help by volunteering in dispensing that food.

There is a need for blood. If you can donate, check your local Red Cross for what you can do.

Some of your circle may have National Guard reservists called up, and those left behind could use some support.

Be a ministering agent; check for needs. I have appreciated what mine has done — delivering both yummy cookies and yeast that is so difficult to find right now.

I have had the opportunity to provide paper towels for a new foster mom and baked bread for others as a pick-me-up. I have called my elderly aunts more often and others with whom I have lost active contact. Following President Nelson’s counsel, my husband and I are doing more family history in preparation for temple work starting again.

We can be a little patient with those who just don’t “get” social distancing, yell a “thank you!” to the delivery personnel, and don’t forget that tip!

See the need. See the positive.

This is a great time to hone our gardening skills and share with others who can’t as your bounty comes in. So many are making face masks for those without sewing skills. Maybe that elderly neighbor needs a grocery shopper or a lawn cut. Many share musical talents virtually or through their open windows. My son-in-law in our home is blessed to be able to continue employment through teleconference. He is enjoying the time with the children and helping our daughter in her homeschooling duties. And he is a mean pizza dough maker and a good cook! We are blessed to have the priesthood in our home and the sacrament is a blessing to all of the participants. Family devotionals are richer. We need to see beyond the negatives where we can, and offer a virtual hand where needed.

Mosiah 4:16 says “. . . ye yourselves will succor those that stand in need of your succor . . .” We cannot allow isolation to delay us. Succor means “offer assistance and support in times of hardship and distress.” The Savior is described as not just giving assistance, but turning and going to those in need. In John 5:3 he saw the need of the crippled man who had been lame 88 years at the pool of Bethesda and said “Wilt thou be made whole?” He saw the need and fed the multitude in Matthew 5, the site of the Sermon on the Mount. He saw that virtue had passed from him and turned to the woman with an issue of blood and blessed her. He tarried longer with the people at Bountiful in 4th Nephi because he saw their need. He turned away from his own safety as he died on the cross for us. He succors us by serving us mortals. Let us follow his example. As his followers, can we do less?