As this latest lockdown drags on, I must admit to being weary of the restrictions. I long for the days when I could have others over for dinner or meet someone for a cuppa in a local café. Building community in a new place seems like it would be much easier if I was allowed to actually see people.

And yet, more than the frustration and sadness over what I am currently unable to do, today I’m filled with gratitude at how God works in spite of these difficulties. As I spend time walking and praying around the city a couple of times a week, I am able to connect with people through something as simple as a passing smile. Sometimes, I take a moment to speak to someone and ask whether there is something I can be praying for them as I walk. These moments of connection seem to bring encouragement to those I talk with, and I am definitely blessed by them. I have a growing list of names to pray for (and a few I’ve sadly forgotten), and I hope to bump into some of the people again in future walks.

Beyond the prayer walks, God is bringing about other connections. Yesterday, I was able to meet someone from here who works with the same organization in another country. What an encouragement to walk (and brave the snow together) and hear more about the city from someone who grew up here, to be able to share vision and be affirmed in the things God is speaking to me about this place I love! (There may also be other opportunities that arise from this connection, from teaching on identity online for a group in France, to hosting outreach teams from other places, and possibly even partnering on a future event with a local musician.)

Last night, I “attended” (via zoom) my first hub/small group gathering with the church I am connecting with here, and while I haven’t met any of the church members in person yet, relationships are already being built! (There may also be some opportunities to serve the church in worship or other ways in the coming months as well.)

In addition to the church connections, I am continuing to serve with a local ecumenical community too. I will be helping with an online Alpha course in the coming weeks, and I’m also going to start serving a family from that group with child care one day a week so the parents can be free to serve the youth of this city together.

I am so grateful for the ways God is building community for me here and providing opportunities to serve and connect with people in spite of lockdowns. I’m so glad I follow the One who is able to make paths where circumstances seem to offer only obstacles. Oh how I look forward to being able to meet some of these new friends for a cup of coffee or have them over for a meal, but until then, I will keep my eyes open to the ways I can build community and trust that God is making a way.