March 24, 2021
Noah began to be a man of the soil, and he planted a vineyard. He drank of the wine and became drunk and lay uncovered in his tent. Genesis 9:20-21
The team of the Lewis and Clark expedition encountered many near-death trials. After the celebrations of their successful return waned, all but two dissipated to alcoholism and fits of rage that led to an early grave. This is not uncommon when all the hoopla of surviving a traumatic event ends. Similarly, we see Noah (who has to get on with the mundane elements of life after a traumatic event) plant a vineyard and become intoxicated. As we move forward in this post-pandemic age, all of us will face similar pain-avoidant temptations. For those of us who follow Jesus, we need to keep casting our anxiety on to him (1 Peter 5:7). We also need to be aware that many around us will resort to self-destructive behavior to cope with the pain and grief.
Father God, help us to process our fears and sorrows and care for those who are struggling. Amen.
Rev. Gordon Green, M.Div., M.A. Counseling
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