The COVID-19 pandemic has thrown the world into turmoil. Handshakes are banned, meetings are restricted, masks are often compulsory. The ordinary has become potentially deadly.
Fear - a Deadly DiseaseIt can be debated as to whether this fear is justified. Yet normal life has been overturned to an alarming extent. Could it be that the consequences of the fear are worse than the disease itself?
Do Not Be AfraidAs Christians we are not called to live in fear. 'Do not be afraid' is a common refrain in Scripture.
One example is the time when Jesus walked on the water. The disciples are in the boat attempting to cross the sea of Galilee late at night. They are troubled when they see a figure walking towards them on the sea. "It is a ghost" they cry. Jesus responds "Be of good cheer! It is I, do not be afraid."1 Mark 6:50
A Post-Christian CountryIt is revealing to see how a post-Christian country like the U.K. copes with a crisis like the current one.
No help will be sought from a God they don't believe in.
Recent generations have little thought for a saviour. The choice is between hiding away, hoping the virus will disappear or a Stoic resignation: 'what will be will be'.
We are told to 'stay safe', the impotent platitude of people who don't know what to say to each other.
A Different WayHow different for the follower of Christ!
An undefeatable hope in an undefeatable Saviour.
- 'Do not be afraid little flock'. 2 Luke 12:32
- 'Our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed'. 3 Romans 13:11
- 'Come to me all you who are weary and I will give you rest'. 4 Matthew 11:28
- 'He that believes in me will live even though he dies'. 5 John 11:25
- 'Surely I am with you always'. 6 Matthew 28:20
- 'When you pass through the waters I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze'. 7 Isaiah 43:2