Who are the people you know that would benefit from a check-in from you?
The lockdown has halted life as we know it. Our regular routines have stopped overnight. The longer we social distance, the more critical it becomes to check on people in our lives.
I know of many organizations and individuals who have made lists of people to reach out by email, text, or call. No longer can we assume that people are okay. Your willingness to check on the people who need it the most can make a vast difference.
Consider what Proverbs 16:24 says, “Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.” Your words can help people experience Jesus and bring life in this challenging time.
When you contact an individual, you can follow these three steps:
- First, ask how they are feeling today. Sometimes a general “how are you” can feel daunting to answer. Narrow it to today can help a person share what’s on their heart.
- Second, ask them about areas of their life that they feel gratitude. Each conversation we have can direct people to see what’s working right.
- Lastly, take a moment to pray with them—your words of prayer matter.
As you start your list of individuals to reach out, take a moment to consider the following people:
Individuals who live alone
Social distancing has affected those who used to get out to see other people. Living alone can feel isolating. I often hear that people do not want to be a bother, but it’s so critical that we reach out to other people. They could be struggling the most.
The Elderly
You may know people who live in retirement communities. Right now, these individuals in their apartments have limited abilities to leave. Hearing from another person can cheer up their day.
Individuals Experiencing Furloughs and Job Loss
It’s hard enough to go through a job shift in “normal” times. Checking on someone in a job transition provides them a space to process. You can bring an added sense of encouragement. Take a moment to ask for ways to help.
Individuals Grieving
If you lost a loved one in this season, the funeral required limited numbers of individuals. Celebrating life became more complicated and limiting. Grief is a process, and everyone experiences it differently. Your willingness to ask questions in the days, weeks, and months following a loss helps a person realize others are thinking about them.
Individuals with Stressful Jobs
People who work in the medical and government sector have put in long hours. Marketplace leaders like CEOs, COOs, and CFOs have encountered tough decisions. Others have experienced work from home of not disconnecting. You checking in can bring a breath of fresh air.
Who else would you add to this list? Share in the comment section.
Photo by allison christine on Unsplash