The Ancient Celts believed in the interconnectedness of all things. This idea is depicted in the art as their knot work moves over and under, around and through, with no beginning and no end. When Ireland was Christianized, this belief translated into Christ being in all things and through all things. But the idea of our connection to each other and to nature never completely disappeared.

This deep connection and how we affect each other has never been more clear than with the pandemic of COVID-19. Wherever this wicked germ was born, whether in the body of a bat in some remote cave, or some other secret place, due to our connection with each other and nature, it has profoundly changed lives all over the world.

As I watched the world move from interest to fear I asked God, “What do You want to be for us that we haven’t yet let You be? What do You want to be for me that I haven’t yet allowed You to be?” How is a God that is desperately needed different from a God that is academically debated as an abstract concept?

As the usual business of the world winds down and people are confined to their homes, it seems the world will be forced to “be still” and think about things larger than self, like God. I wonder what will happen to our relationship with our Creator when we slow down and think about our place in human history, our lives and what is larger and more powerful than us.

We are also forced to reflect on the value of relationships with each other, as we find this is not an individual challenge, but we are all in this together. Whether or not we work together will make all the difference for us as a world right now, whether we will heal and be more respectful of the connection we all have with each other, or whether we leave the world in mass devastation.

But while we are asked to be in isolation, it is bad for our mental health. Isolation can breed depression,anxiety and distorted thoughts. So like the virus, which requires us to separate to battle it, it challenges us to use our imagination to stay connected in other ways. Whether it’s singing on the balconies with neighbors like some in Italy have done, having six feet picnics outdoors, using technology or staying connected in other safe and creative ways, it’s time to use our imaginations. We must stay connected to God and each other, and we could find richness and deeper relationships during this pause of normal activity. Through this we can remember we are all interconnected, and truly follow the commandment to Love God and Love our Neighbor like ourselves.