Peace in the pandemic
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea… -Psalm 46:1-2 (NIV)
I don’t suppose it’s unprecedented, but it’s different than anything I’ve seen in my lifetime. As churches, schools, and businesses go online and restrict activities that require human interaction, and the phrase “social distancing” becomes part of the lexicon, it becomes hard some days to differentiate the fact from the myth. In my mind, there are two things going on: an actual health threat in the form of a virus that travels fast and hits hard, and the reaction of people to that threat, which in many cases has bordered on hysteria.
None of this was a surprise to God. As He always does, He will use the circumstances of a fallen world to showcase His sovereignty, mercy, and glory. But what is an appropriate response from the people of God? How do we discern where and how God may use this and come alongside Him in His work?
Remember the former things, those of long ago; I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me. I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come. I say, ‘My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please.’ -Isaiah 46:9-10 (NIV)
The over-reactions of many may be ridiculous, even comical (how much toilet paper do I actually need to have on hand?), but the behaviors are only symptoms. The root cause of the behavior is fear, which is exactly what the enemy wants. We were never in control to begin with. This episode just brings that into focus, exposing our illusion of control. For some, buying up all the toilet paper helps restore at least part of that illusion. (“I don’t know what I’m supposed to do, but I can do this!”)
Christians have the opportunity to step into this situation and bless our neighbors in very special ways. Think “Peace in the Pandemic”. We have a message of hope and a perspective that is sorely needed. Certainly, we want to acknowledge the actual threat and perform/encourage due diligence in guarding against infection. Beyond that, can we behave in ways that calm the fears that trigger the extreme reactions? Here are some ideas. You will likely have others.
Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. –Psalm 37:3 (NIV)
Interact with people online. We have all kinds of tools available to stay connected with friends, family, co-workers, brothers and sisters in Christ. Take advantage of those opportunities and speak life into those interactions.
Go outside. Walk around. Enjoy God’s creation. Trees are budding and the birds don’t know there’s a pandemic going on. When you see someone else, keep your distance, but smile, wave, and greet them.
Order takeout. Businesses need your business. Place a big order and have it sent to a fire station, police station, or medical facility. Tip big for the delivery and speak a blessing to the person on the phone, the driver, and the recipients.
Send cards or e-cards to a nursing home or rehab facility. Let the residents and staff know there’s someone thinking of them.
Pray. We serve a big God. Pray for a cure. Pray for health (physical, mental, emotional, spiritual). Pray for those who have to go on in their jobs, risking exposure – medical professionals, first responders, truckers, retail workers, etc. Pray for those who no longer have jobs to go to and those who didn’t have a job to start with – how hard is this situation hitting them? Pray for revival in the land.
Worship. God is still in control. He is good. He is worthy of our praise. This too shall pass. Breathe….
He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” -Psalm 46:10 (NIV)