Don't Be Socially Distant, O God

But you, Lord, do not be far from me. 

     You are my strength; come quickly to help me.

(Psalm 22:19)

There’s a new term we’re learning, O God:

"Social distancing," it’s called.

I know it’s a good thing,

because it helps to prevent the spread 

of this pernicious disease, COVID-19.

I know we need to keep separated

and isolate ourselves.

But it creates loneliness, O God.

At the time when we most need

a hug, a warm embrace,

we are told to stay away.

But you, Lord – do not be far from me.

     You are my strength; come quickly to help me.

Make known to me your presence, O God.

Give me assurance that you are with me.

In the silence of my loneliness, speak to me:

"Never will I leave you nor forsake you."

Strengthen me by the knowledge of your presence,

that I may in some way 

manifest your presence to others:

  through phone calls,

    through deliveries of food or necessities,

      through letters or cards,

        through kind words spoken to a stranger.

Please, God, don’t “socially distance” yourself from me.

Amen.

During the season of Lent, I am “Praying with David,” using prayers found in the psalms as inspiration for personal prayers.