Liturgies of Quarantine
Quarantine time feels a bit fake, right? There’s a bit of lawlessness about this season that feels challenging to navigate. I believe that our habits form us—they are shaping our worldview, whether we want them to or not. Jamie Smith proposes that when we examine our rhythms and rituals we may see that perhaps we will find that we do not love what or whom we think.
Church services and calendars follow a liturgy, meaning the work of the people. We work together to celebrate the truth of the Gospel, often through phrases and rituals that create and speak to meaning.
Scenes of Quarantine. Sabbath Cheeseboards + puzzles.
I knew that a key aspect of seeking the Lord in this season involved developing appropriate rhythms for my days and weeks. Here are a few of mine:
Daily
Reading Scripture, prayer and worship. This is a daily rhythm for me outside of quarantimes, but I wanted to linger longer, so I slowly drink my coffee and read and let the words sink in. I read Curt Thompson’s simple encouragement that standing and singing worship tells my body “you’re alive!” So while this tends to be a natural rhythm for me, I intentionally create space to stand and sing of the power of the resurrection daily.
Read something theological. Every day I read a commentary or something about church history. It doesn’t have to be lengthy, but I wanted to be particularly focused on Truth in this season so I’ve determined to read a few pages that shape my theology every day.
Move my body. I usually try to dance like a fool in my living room or go for a walk. I’m truthfully deeply effected by the weather so my walks are dependent upon the sunshine.
Read a Toni Morrison essay before bed. A few weeks into quarantine, I added this into my rhythm and I couldn’t be more grateful to wrap my head and heart in her words and creativity. How are you experiencing beauty and creativity in this time?
Weekly
Celebratory meals. I’ve been very intentionally eating, cooking, creating in the kitchen. It’s awakening my senses in new ways and reminding me to celebrate life. We didn’t put a pause on the reality that we live in abundant life! I also found that when every day felt similar, sabbath meals and a rhythm of a delicious charcuterie board has been a gift.
Church livestream. We are not created for individual digital church. And yet, that is life in this season and I’m thankful we live in an era of technology. I’m choosing not to forsake gathering together.
Extra plant care. At least once each week I’ve spent some extra time with my plants, tending, cultivating, and looking for growth. It’s easy for life to feel stagnant in this season. What I’ve always loved about my plants is the opportunity to see very tangible change. New leaves uncurling feels extra special in these weeks.
I haven’t created an exhaustive list, but I hope it’s been an invitation to pause and consider again how our patterns and rituals form us—intentionally or not! What are some of your quarantine liturgies?