Grace and COVID

May 17, 2022

Last Sunday (May 8), I tested positive for COVID. My beloved partner, Cole, had it a few days prior. His infection gave him minimal symptoms: other than some fatigue, Cole felt fine. We both (regularly) tested negative exactly five days after the initial positive test.

My case was much more severe than Cole's. I experienced body and headaches that left me bed-ridden for two days. I am not someone who copes well with being sick, so this was an experience in humility and grace. I had to accept help from my loving partner, allow coworkers to take on some of my regular duties, and invite the Holy Spirit -- the Sustainer -- to wrap me in Her healing embrace. My prayer during my illness was simple: “God, stay with me.” God did just that.

God’s presence in that dark hour was one of gentleness, tenderness, and quiet. God met me where I was. There were no demands of keeping up with my standard prayer practices, nor was there a pressure to get better in a short period of time. Instead, God offered compassionate mercy, and even whispered to me: “You are my Beloved.” To be named as Beloved while in a vulnerable, weakened state left me feeling stronger, lighter, and ready to meet others in their suffering.

I want to extend my most sincere thanks to all of you who prayed for me, sent thoughtful notes and well-wishes, and offered to bring meals. I am deeply grateful for our community where people are held in love and are recognized as members of the Body of Christ. Thank you, as well, to the clergy and staff at St. Martin’s who kept LIFT afloat in my absence. Cole and I were humbled by the outpouring of love and support.

As we see another uptick in COVID cases, know that vaccines work. Had I been unvaccinated, I probably would have been hospitalized. As followers of Christ, we are called to love one another. Part of showing that love involves protecting one another through vaccination, mask-wearing, and staying home when we are ill (even if it is not COVID-related!). If you have questions about vaccinations, including vaccines for children, please contact the church office. We can point you in the right direction, as well as provide assistance with acquiring vaccines and/or boosters.

Lastly, the federal government is providing eight FREE at-home COVID tests to any household that is interested. This is the third round of free tests from the government, and I encourage all to order them. More information can be found here.

Gratefully and healthfully,

Anne Alexis