Pastor's corner | Published 2020/10/17

Dear Brothers and Sisters in the Lord!

By Roman Chalupka

Dear Brothers and Sisters in the Lord!

Did you know that in the most of the leaflets and pamphlets about our church we use the expression „Adventists – the people of Hope”? I just got the idea to think about the reason we see ourselves as people of hope. Seemingly, it is obvious — with hope we wait for the coming of our Lord, Jesus Christ and we want to cherish His presence in our hearts right now. But is it not really so obvious? Do we think about His return so often? Did His return started to be our desire? Do we really miss Him now?

One of the ADRA counsellors in Australia, John Cresswell, has written recently about six ways how to hang on to hope. Let me share with you those ways.

1. Keep yourself healthy. The healthier your body is, the better your mind and emotions will be. Eat well and be sure to exercise – it will boost your brain’s endorphins and keep your head in a happy place.

2. Have plans for every day. Try to keep your normal routine as much as possible. If working from home, have clear time and space boundaries. Make a ‟to do” list and tick things off to gain a sense of accomplishment.

3. Find new things to try. Try a new recipe. Read a book by a new author. Play a new game. . Pick up a new hobby. If you can use your new skill throughout COVID – even better. Try colouring in as a way to relax and de-stress.

4. Stay connected. Keep in touch with family and friends. Make a call to friends you haven’t spoken to for a long time. Even the simple act of making eye contact and  smiling with someone can boost your endorphins and lift your spirits.

5. Stay positive. Notice the good things you are still able to enjoy. Keep a gratitude list. Focus in the present. Use all your senses to appreciate the little time things. Take some time for self-care. remind yourself that COVID-19, like all other pandemics, will not last forever.  Make goals and plans for when COVID is over.

6. Go easy on yourself. If you are not having an easy day, remind yourself that it’s normal to have low days. There are plenty of people who need help at the moment.  Don’t be afraid to reach out for help if the down days are too deep or too many. Call a friend, contact beyondblue (beyondblue.org.au) or get in touch with your local ADRA Community Centre.

How wonderful is it, that our Lord knows everything and understands us perfectly. Through the prophet Jeremiah, He wants to calm and comfort us. ‟For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” (Jeremiah 29:11-13)

What a great promise for today. And the rest is before us, the return of the Lord Jesus to take us home. If we believe so and feel, then we are really the people of hope. Now this is something to share!

Pastor Roman Chalupka

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