The U.S. Surgeon General recently announced: “An epidemic of loneliness is plaguing Americans, jeopardizing well-being, health and sense of belonging,” and added that “Loneliness is linked to an increased risk for anxiety and depression, heart disease, dementia and other health issues, as well as early death.” [USA Today, Story by Nada Hassanein, 5/3/23]
I remember as a child we would often gather in the small side yard next to my aunt’s and uncle’s house. There was an old water pump in the yard and a sprinkling can next to it. On hot days we would chase each other around with that sprinkling can until we were drenched. Then there were old mason jars in the basement which we could use to catch fireflies after it got dark.
While the youngsters ran around, the “older generation” sat on the small porch talking about their day, and watching the kids play. There was always home-made root beer to share.
It seems to me that modernization changed much of that. Air conditioning made homes comfortable to remain inside on hot days, television gave us something to do when inside. Now our social media consumes us (even at the dinner table). We have become isolated from our neighbors, friends, and even from our families.
The enemy of our soul always seeks to isolate us. He knows that a solitary person is much easier to pick off than a group of people who love and support each other. There truly is strength in numbers.
God knows that also. Psalm 68:6 reminds us that “God sets the solitary in families.”
The church is to be God’s family on earth, a living, breathing refuge full of love, life, and support for each person. It is to be a place with welcoming arms for the lost and lonely. It is to be a place where healings happen, and grace is given.
We are called to ‘be the church’ for this time. We need to make sure we make every effort to seek our and embrace the lonely.
