By Hannah Moody

Throughout this pandemic, all have been affected. No matter one’s background or social standing, each of us has been affected. Coronavirus is relentless that way, not caring where you are, who you are, anything. If not physically, you have likely been affected mentally, emotionally, financially and spiritually. 

I know my own stress levels have been much higher these past months. My work environment has changed. My school schedule has changed. My family dynamic has changed. I became more emotional each month with the news of rising numbers. I was discouraged even with the good news of a vaccine. Nothing would ever be the same, it seemed. Our minds shifted into grieving and panic mode as we realized it would  be a very long time for “old normal” to return. 

But where I struggled the most was in thinking about the well-being of healthcare workers. Not enough PPE; not enough sleep; not enough time with their families. It was scary and worrisome. 

My four closest family members were working in this environment: my mum in home health under the direction of a hospital; my dad and brother both chaplains at different hospitals; and my sister-in-law as a physical therapist at a local hospital. 

Two out of the four of them have looked COVID in the face—having to watch patients without their families; seeing families say goodbye through glass. It was difficult to say the least. The stories I heard from each of my family members were hard to hear. But the reality was that I did not personally see all this. I hadn’t been there in the war zone. They had.

If you’re reading this and are continuing to work in healthcare, know that I am with you and am for you. You truly are a fighter. Even when you’re tired and feel helpless, you are a fighter. Always remember that. I hope this prayer brings you some sort of comfort and warmth. Isaiah 43:2 says, “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.”

Loving God,

Amplify healthcare workers’

stamina

patience 

and wisdom

in these times of affliction

Prune any of their

anxiety

fear

or overwhelmingness 

in these times of worry

Unveil to them their

strength

sanity

and hope through You

in these times of unfamiliarity 

Illuminate Your

peace

love

and mercy

in these times of restlessness

Cultivate 

safety measures

dependence 

and compassion

in these times of disbelief 

In Your Powerful Name, Amen.

Hannah Moody is currently pursuing an M.Div. with a concentration in pastoral care and counseling from Baptist Seminary of Kentucky. She received her B.A. from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and currently serves as the pastoral resident at Georgetown Baptist Church of Georgetown, Ky.