CORONAVIRUS!
The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially declared the COVID-19 coronavirus to be a global pandemic. The news is filled with stories about infections, fatalities, symptoms, government reactions, closures, shortages, and cancellations. People are scared. They are panic buying, wearing masks, staying away from crowds and canceling trips. Is there a Christian perspective on this? How should we respond to the disease and the panic it has spawned? First, our lives are in God’s hands. That doesn’t mean we don’t take precautions (wash your hands, don’t touch your face, etc.) but it does mean we don’t panic. God is still in control. Second, frightened people need something to hold on to. We have the Gospel. We have the Savior. We have the message of eternal life in Christ. This is a time to share hope, not despair. Rest assured of God’s control and be ready to share hope. That’s our response.