We see the signs of the pandemic all around us. Schools, stores, businesses are closed. Churches are closed for gatherings; sporting events have been cancelled. We are told to stay at least 6 feel away from other people. The news is full of the latest information (and misinformation) about the novel corona virus and COVID-19; the groceries stores have no toilet paper or hand sanitizers in stock. Some people are hoarding, some are seeking to make a profit off the fears of others. The number of people infected and those dying from COVID-19 rise daily. Is it time to panic yet? In the words of the apostle Paul, “By no means!” As people who believe in God and have faith that we are saved through Christ, there is no need to panic… Ever! Paul wrote to the Philippians and by extension to us as children of God, “Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”
We do not know what is going to happen to us or to the world around us; we do know that the God who created the world and everything in it, cares about us and all of creation. The scarier the world in which we live becomes, and the more changes we experience in our lives, the more God invites us to turn to him and trust that all will be well. Paul promises that as we pray to God asking for his help and giving thanks for all that he has done and continues to do in our world, “…the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” It is normal to fear the unknown, to be afraid of things we have never seen or done before. Paul invites us to turn those fears over to God, giving thanks for Jesus who lived among us and became one of us.
Prayer for today: Dear Lord, we are living in challenging times. Help us when we are afraid and feeling anxious to put our trust in you, the God who shows us over and over again how much you love us. Keep us safe from this new virus that is sweeping our world. Bring healing to those who are affected. Bless those who daily risk their own lives to care for others who are sick. Above all may we experience the peace that is beyond our understanding that brings us out of fear to you. Amen.
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