Autumn is often a season of reflection and gratitude for the many blessings of the year. But in this year of uncertainty, some of us may be tempted to look at this year as a lost year. Buzzfeed began running a series of feature stories called "The Lost Year". The stories feature people of different ages and backgrounds who share how the COVID-19 pandemic affected them. But is there really such a thing as a "lost" year?
God places people in an appointed time. As Paul reminded the people of Athens in Acts 17:26-27, "From one man He made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth. And He marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their dwelling place. He did this so that they would seek Him and perhaps reach out for Him and find Him." No matter how discouraging and traumatic the times seem, God has chosen us to inhabit this time so that we might seek Him here and now.
For many, this year feels like it is suspended in time, both flying by and dragging on forever. We've missed out on so much this year, from going to school, sporting events, weddings and, more tragically, funerals of loved ones. We've also seen how the virus has affected everyone as the suicide rates spike and the elderly suffer in isolation. Amidst this "lost year," we must remember: God is not surprised by the coronavirus and nothing is lost to Him.
To listen to a short Breakpoint podcast about this, click here.