Cusp is an old English word meaning edge, verge, precipice, or point of transition. When someone is on the cusp, they are on the farthest edge of existence, looking over the side … observing and wondering, perhaps ready to make a life-changing decision. Having worked in the field of bereavement for nearly 40 years, I’ve heard many stories of people at the end of their rope, in despair, feeling hopeless and helpless, and lacking strong faith. This is not uncommon when life events, such as the death of a loved one, robs us of equilibrium and balance. Life just doesn’t seem right. We begin to wonder if anything will ever be right again. We question ourselves, our family, our faith and even God Himself. The one question we can’t seem to get an answer for is, “Why?”
The current global pandemic has brought some of us to this same place of doubt, fear and anxiety.
When I began to consider what could take the place of living in uncertainty on the edge, I decided to use other words which I found to be the most common needs we have when things seem out of control. I decided to use these words to describe our deepest needs: Control, Understanding, Support and Purpose.
“How much do I feel in control right now?” may be helpful to ask ourselves in these stressful times. We usually need to have some sense of control in our lives, or at least have a strong faith in Who is in control. Take an inventory of where your trust is right now. Ask yourself some tough questions, such as “what am I trusting in?” Is it the nightly news, the media or friends? Or is it in the Lord?
The second helpful question is to evaluate how much you understand what is going on and why, which may be difficult right now. We have some answers, but they tend to change daily. Are you able to talk to the Lord and receive His perspective? He is NOT worried. He is NOT stressed out. He alone is in control. We do well to lean into Him to gain the best and healthiest understanding. Be wise. Avoid speculation and rumor. Trust that you are in the palm of God’s hand and He will not let you go.
The third question is “Where is your support?” Family, friends, neighbors, Emmanuel Faith family, small groups and our leaders are here to lend support to you. Your leaders are currently working on scores of ways to lend aid and support to you. If you feel left out or alone, know that you are prayed for daily, thought about constantly and we want to connect with you.
Finally, “What are YOU up to, Lord?” Where are YOU in all this? What is the purpose underlying what You have allowed globally? What do you want to happen as a result of this crisis? How do you want me or us to change
Deuteronomy 31:8 states clearly that God will never leave us nor forsake us. No matter what.
Chip Whitman
Pastor of Care & Counseling