Most of us have been “sent to our room,” except for the occasional trips to the store or a walk around the neighborhood. We’re pent up, longing to eat at a restaurant instead of claiming a take-out meal in a bag or box.

If we think we have it tough, people in one Asian country have been starving. Their leaders suddenly declared a strict lockdown. All work ceased. Citizens are being beaten when they break the curfew.

In one European nation, you have to text a number for government permission to go grocery shopping or visit the doctor.

And on another continent, the country’s lockdown dictates that people can’t walk outside for exercise and fresh air. Indoors means indoors.

This is wearing on us. It’s oppressive, depressing. Fear and frustration have risen to the surface. There’s no escape.

With churches closed, it raises the discouragement level among believers. We’re realize how much we need each other. Zoom services don’t quite meet that need.

It feels dark these days.

In reality, we’ve lived in a dark world all our lives. Sin has been all around us. The current global situation only makes things feel darker.

This is the time we need to believe Jesus when he says, “I am the light of the world.” (John 8:12 NIV) It was true 2,000 years ago, and it’s true today.

He goes on to say, “Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”

When we follow Jesus, we come alive. Our spirit is renewed. This renewal filters into our heart, emotions and entire being. Our outlook changes. We are filled with hope, because Jesus is hope. He is a supernatural God who imparts life into us through his Holy Spirit.

When we follow online news feeds and TV anchors and commentators, we’re letting the darkness of this world fill our minds. When our conversations always center on the latest bad news about the Coronavirus, we’re dragged into the fog.

Soon, we will be free from the strict limitations. We will come through the pandemic.

But, until that happens, will you spend an entire day in the light? Schedule a retreat with Jesus, pouring over the Word of God and praying. Have a getaway with your Savior. Be energized by the light. Be renewed.

That’s what Michael has discovered. He texted me, “I’m finding that God is answering my prayer to get back to spiritual growth. It just took a global pandemic to keep me home for weeks on end. I have a burning desire for knowledge of him.”

Follow Jesus. He is the light of life.

(Here’s a video I watched over and over again the other day. I know you’ll be encouraged).