In the Name of Almighty God, the Lord of heaven and King of all nations.
Children of Light,
I wish to speak to those among you who may be feeling isolated in their faith journey or who are physically isolated in a land where there are no other believers such as yourself. In a world that prioritizes self-centeredness and material pursuits, it is not uncommon for believers to find themselves standing alone, like a solitary flame in the midst of darkness. However, let me remind you that even in the midst of isolation, you are not alone. God is with you, and so are His other people.
It is in times of isolation that you might be tempted to doubt, to question the purpose of your faith, your mission, or even to feel abandoned. But it is precisely in these moments that you are called to deepen your trust in God’s providence and to draw closer to Him. Remember the words of our Lord Jesus, who promised, “I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20) He is with you in your isolation, guiding your steps and giving you strength.
Throughout history, there are many accounts of faithful men and women who faced isolation and yet emerged as great lights of hope. Think of the apostle Paul, who spent years in prison for his faith, yet continued to preach the gospel to fellow prisoners and even to his guards. He wrote letters of encouragement, which eventually became part of the Christian New Testament. Paul’s isolation did not silence him; it only served to amplify his voice and spread the message of God’s love. Likewise, consider the example of the early Christians who faced persecution and were driven underground. They gathered in secret, sharing their faith and supporting one another, knowing that they were part of a larger body of believers. They were isolated physically but united spiritually, drawing strength from their shared hope in Christ.
Today, most of you have the privilege of living in a time when technology allows you to connect with fellow believers across vast distances. You may physically be isolated, but you can still find community and support online. If you are able, take advantage of this opportunity to engage in virtual fellowship, to encourage one another, and to share your struggles and victories. Together, you can remind each other of the truth of God’s Word, His promises and spur one another on toward love and good deeds. (Hebrews 10:24)
Remember, children of Light, that Almighty God has a purpose for your isolation. Just as He used Joseph’s time in prison to shape and prepare him for a greater calling (Genesis 39:19-21), He can use your current circumstances to mold you into the person He wants you to be. Your isolation is not a sign of God’s abandonment but an invitation to draw closer to Him, to seek His face, and to find strength in His Presence.
My dear brothers and sisters, do not lose heart in your isolation. Instead, embrace it as an opportunity for growth, reflection, and deepening of your faith. Reach out to your fellow believers, both in person and online, and build a community of support. Trust in God’s plan for your life, knowing that He is with you every step of the way.
May you find encouragement and strength in His presence, and may your isolated flame shine brightly, illuminating the world around you.
Mehr Madʼyana
July 4, 2023
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