Coronavirus is like the-new-kid-on-the-block. Some give it a lot of attention, others do not.
Does it deserve the VIP seat bestowed by the mass media? Maybe yes. Maybe not.
No matter how we view this trendy virus, as health-crisis, or a manipulated political agenda, we all have to agree it’s affecting our lives.
How should I respond to this as a Christian?
Be JOYFUL in hope. One said it well “Pain is inevitable, but misery is optional.” It’s where our Christian-rubber hits the road. Help others see how the joy of Jesus rolls up your sleeves each morning as you make the best of this messy disruption in life: cancelled orders, trips, and schools. “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” Romans 12:12 NIV
Be PATIENT in affliction. Let us waltz with the three truths of James 1:19. Let us be quick to listen as others share their view concerning this crisis. Let us be slow to speak, or complain; grumbles don’t point to Jesus. And may we be slow to anger, that’s easily triggered by the fear of not knowing how to plan tomorrow: an upcoming business trip, women’s conference, or a family vacation?
Be FAITHFUL in prayer. There’s more to Coronavirus than being a contagious disease, it’s spiritual warfare: some mission trips are postponed, some conferences are canceled, some churches stay closed, and some Christians live in fear and trepidation, while others struggle in frustration.
If, believers don’t intercede in PRAYER for a world gone mad with panic, who will?
Let us pray for those suffering physically. Let us pray even more fervently for the spiritual darkness we live in. “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” Ephesians 6:12 NIV
Let us be grateful to Jesus for Times of Grace to participate in mission trips, retreats, conferences and freely attend church gatherings where the name of the Lord is proclaimed with JOY.
To summarize, let’s Keep Calm and Pray On. (… and wash your hands)