By The Rev. Jakavious Pickett
Over the last year and a half, for the first time in our lives, the entire world has experienced the same thing at the same time. This global pandemic has affected each of us in ways that we never could have imagined. From quarantining and social distancing to mask wearing and the closure of businesses, schools, and even local churches, life has just been different for us all.
These differences have not gone unnoticed, creating a strain mentally, emotionally and spiritually. Statistics have shown that now more than ever, people are struggling to hold things together, and diagnosis of mental illnesses, including anxiety and depression, is rising. Many who have stood on their faith also have found their faith wavering. However, I’ve come to understand that even in a storm, the sun is subject to shine.
Though things may appear to be unraveling, I believe that with faith, there is always an opportunity to grow, thrive and become better people. Through the lens of faith, we must understand that victory may not always be visible, but it is always tangible. Although we may not see victory, we can rest assured that with patience, persistence and perseverance, we can overcome any obstacle that life throws at us and achieve victory.
Yes, Covid-19 is a disruptor, but together, we can become its disruptor. I often use the phrase, “We are better together.” I still believe that this is true, even amid a global pandemic. If we put aside our selfish desires and work together as a unit on the local, national and even global level, we can and will achieve superiority over a relentless virus. Remember that faith is the ability to believe when believing is totally impossible and conditions are unfavorable. We can’t allow our minds, emotions or spirits to believe that all hope is lost because it is not; our hope is growing stronger.
As I close, I’m reminded of Hebrews 11:2: “Through their faith, the people in days of old earned a good reputation.” Conquering this pandemic by holding onto hope will be an inspiring story for generations to come. Because we remained persistent and unwavering, those who will read the history books will know and understand that the people of this generation were not only hopeful, but resilient. They will know that even amid global adversity, we didn’t quit, and we didn’t give up. We remained steadfast.
The Rev. Jakavious Pickett is lead pastor of Praise Temple FGBC, Biloxi. Reach him at (228) 967-7735 or infoptbx@gmail. com.