For the past few months we have watched leaders around the world try to address a global challenge. As I write this, we are still in the thick of it here in Quebec. As many consider what it means to protect our bodies, this crisis has taught us that we are so much more than that. Our values, our history and the spiritual part of what it means to be human also call out for attention.

We have all felt the emotional stress of this time. As a pastor, I spend lots of time with people trying to get honest about this hidden area of life. Whether you like the idea of spirituality or faith, you probably have felt the inner fabric of your life start to push to the surface. If that's happened you've probably been confronted with the questions like, ‘What do I believe about suffering?’ Or perhaps you've wondered, ‘Who can I trust with my pain and sadness?’ I know some who have struggled with how to experience healing in the face of such anger. Whatever your question, they all point to the spiritual part of our lives and how it matters now more than ever.

We all understand the importance of physical health, but spiritual health matters as well. To experience deep joy and meaning, we must attend to both the exterior part of life as well as the interior. Over the years, I have seen that this is one of the habits of healthy families. They make it a priority to seek God together and to celebrate hope with others. In a mysterious way, spirituality provides an invisible glue that keeps us focused on the right things.

It is unfortunate that it has taken a crisis to help us refocus our lives on what it would mean to believe in God and his strength. As a spiritual leader, I have noticed a pattern that is worth repeating. Those who make time for spiritual growth also see improvements in other areas of life. Harvard researchers have shown that regular attendance at religious gatherings lowers risk of 'death by despair' which includes all sorts of addictive behavior.

Whatever surprises await us, may you see that there is some good that can come out of this difficult season. There is a wise way of preparing for life’s storms and it starts with taking your spiritual life seriously.  It’s never too late to find a faith community and revisit what you believe about God as a first step to making your inner spiritual life a priority. A step in this direction is essential if you truly care about a healthier you.