This past Easter Sunday my wife celebrated her birthday. Several families from Elim paraded by our home Sunday evening in 11 honking cars. “Happy Birthday” blaring from a lead vehicle followed by flowers, balloons, and cards passed via social distance, along with waves, air-hugs and well-wishes. We so wished we could have invited everyone in and had a real party! But, alas, that is not to be.
Most of us are struggling with isolation. My joke is it is getting so bad that even introverts are wanting to be with people!
We aren’t the only ones to be isolated. Just think of Noah on the ark (Genesis 6-9). It was God who shut them up inside (Genesis 7:16)! For 377 days he and Mrs. Noah, their three sons—Shem, Ham, and Japheth—and their three daughters-in-law were sheltered-in-place on their floating home and nautical zoo. They were isolated from all that was familiar.
Here is a brainstorm project for you. If you are isolated do it alone. If you are with your family then brainstorm as a group. Bounce this around the table while you are eating in social isolation.
First,
- what was the downside of being isolated on the ark?
- what do you suppose Noah and the family were missing?
I started a list:
- Firm ground
- Agriculture
- Fresh food
- Trees
- Extended family
- Now, you take it from here…
Second, what were the advantages of being isolated on the ark?
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