2020 A Year of Great Awakenings

When we hear the term 20/20 we think of having perfect vision. However, 20/20 vision does not necessarily mean perfect vision, but rather having clarity or sharpness of vision at a distance of 20 feet. As we focus on the year 2020, clarity is needed. This year has been like none other we've ever seen or even imagined. With a global pandemic effecting the world, every area of life has been impacted in some way. This pandemic has caused many of us to reexamine our priorities.

Things that have been overlooked, neglected or simply forgotten are now being brought into focus. It appears as though God slowed the world down so that we might all take a closer look at our lives and matters that are occurring around us. You could say that the pandemic has brought about a great awakening, an opportunity to reset or reprogram life.

Many have chosen to turn to Jesus and rely on his word for peace and direction. We are being led more than ever before to go to God in sincere prayer seeking his guidance and blessings over our lives.

Life's uncertainty has also taught us the importance of family and our health. Each day it becomes more apparent that life on earth is not promised. During these times of much sickness, we have been taught to appreciate our health, the health of others and to take nothing for granted. Circumstances have forced us to slow down, rest, stay home, spend time with family. We are learning to enjoy simple life, nature, and home cooked meals. Parents have been given the task of teaching their children at home.

We have learned that church worship does not only have to occur within the walls of the church. Many church buildings have closed during this pandemic and congregations have learned to connect through technology. We have come to realize that the building is not the church, but rather it is the people who are the church.

Many of us have been confronted with what God's truth says about government authority, love, and hatred. His word tells us to respect and pray for the people that he places into government authority. It also tells us to love our neighbors. We should always choose to show love over hatred. Many are learning that we exercise our faith in Christ when we speak against hate and racism, speak up for injustice, speak up for inequality and care for the less fortunate.

In today's world, good health hygiene has become a number one priority. Daily we are being reminded by Health Science authorities of the importance of frequent hand washing, regular sanitizing of all frequently touched items, and staying physically active. We are being told to wear face mask for our own well being as well as for the good of others. In addition, we're being ask to practice social distancing as a measure of safety to reduce the spreading of germs and disease.

There is now more than ever before, a need to know and understand technology. It has become one of our primary modes of communication for business, medical purposes, education, church and social settings. Technology is being recognized as a necessary tool that can be used for a greater purpose other than posting vacation pics, spending time on Facebook or Instagram.

Many are also realizing that material things are not as important as the necessities of life. All have observed that anyone can become homeless and hungry, and that the wealthy and famous are not exempt from a pandemic. Unemployment, business closings and an economy on life support has taught everyone the importance of saving. Most are learning that jobs, careers, and homes are temporary. Some are recognizing for the first time that they must live responsible and discipline themselves against lavish spending. Individuals whose work occupations that were once overlooked are now appreciated and are considered essential. We are now learning to show gratitude for what we do have.

So, as you can see, there has been a great awakening in 2020. Because our world has rebelled against God, our path has become confused and we have lost our way. Dire circumstances have forced us to search for clarity. But, God desires that His people not only have mental and visual clarity but also spiritual clarity. His word reminds us in Matthew 6:33, "to seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to us." Finally, Proverbs 3:4-6 says, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight."

20/20 Vision Picture courtesy of Summerbrook Church