We identify and cling to the things that matter most to us during a crisis like what we’re experiencing during this pandemic. What’s most important? Who are my people? What are my priorities? What is essential and what is optional?
I’ve considered these questions in recent weeks. Maybe you have, too.
Crisis brings clarity.
Crisis also has the power to provide clarity for an entire organization. At Sheltering Wings, the quarantine has sharpened our focus on our mission.
We do what we do because every victims of domestic violence deserves to have a safe, secure place where they can rest, heal and learn to hope again. Most importantly, we do what we do because we want everyone we serve to experience the grace and mercy of God in his Son, Jesus.
A recent exchange case manager Jan Smither had with a resident is an excellent example.
Jan called a male resident who had not checked in by midnight to ask if he was safe. He wasn’t in danger. However, in spite of his hard work to remain sober, he had given into his urge to drink that evening. Too ashamed and afraid to return to the shelter that night, he stayed away. He had convinced himself he would be kicked out.
“He sounded defeated,” said Jan, “so I did my best to reassure him we wouldn’t turn on him or abandon him.”
After a long pause, the resident said, “I’m sorry if I’ve disappointed you. Why do you care so much? Nobody has ever cared about me like you all do.”
Why do we care so much?
Jan got to the heart of the matter. “We do care about you and we want to be sure you’re safe,” she said. “There’s hope for you. I know this to be true because Jesus is our Savior. He loves us so we love you. There’s nothing you can do to make God love you any more or less than he already does.”
The resident returned the following day. He chose to exit the shelter a few days later (a reminder that it takes several attempts before most victims finally leave their abusers). I’m encouraged because we planted seeds in his heart during his time at Sheltering Wings. Only time will tell if those seeds take root. I pray they do.
When I followed up with Jan, she said, “I’ve come to peace with the fact I cannot know how long survivors will remain in our care or if they will ultimately leave their abusers. But, I’ve been convinced more than ever that I have to make the most of every interaction. What matters most is how I treat each resident and that I take each opportunity to share the real reason we care for them so much.”
While I’m not happy we are experiencing a global pandemic, I’m grateful for the clarity these last several weeks has provided. I’m beyond grateful for the heart and talent of Jan and the rest of our team. I’m grateful for you, too. We have the most incredible partners. Thank you for your continued prayer and support.
We’ll pull through this together. And, I pray we will all end up with a clearer sense of who we are and what God intends to do in and through us.
Gratefully,
Cassie Mecklenburg
Executive Director
P.S. We are working hard to help residents maintain social distance. This is especially difficult before and during dinner. If you, your small group, your church or your business are looking for a safe and extremely helpful way to serve during the pandemic, would you consider signing up for the Meal Train?
