COVID 19 -a Jesus response to this crisis

I am conscious that at the present time we are seeing a world that looks entirely different to a few months ago. It is unprecedented that within such a short time, a virus could cause such social, economic, medical and governmental change. However I do believe this is a season for Jesus followers to rise up and be seen as the force for good and to bring light into dark situations. Five steps that I am encouraging for family and friends are below.

1. Say no to fear. Do not let fear take over your heart or your head. This means that you limit watching endless negative videos or news broadcasts. Seek reputable information from sources that you trust and do not allow the news feed to keep going. Pull away from anything sensationalist or any predictions of doom. God reminds us over and over again to Have no fear. INSTEAD TRUST THAT GOD HOLDS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY IN THIS SEASON.

2. Say no to mocking. There are some who have gone to the other extreme of saying that everything will be ok and that we have no need to do anything but this is also an extreme reaction to the circumstances. The mockers will not heed sensible precautions. We are not to partner with anyone who opposes restrictions or intentionally spreads illness by their actions. INSTEAD HEED DIRECTIONS AND ACCEPT THE LIMITATIONS IMPOSED BY THOSE IN AUTHORITY.

3. Say yes to wisdom. This is the season for being wise in what you do and how you do it. We don’t hoard because this is anti-Christian approach. We believe that there will always be enough for our needs. This is part of our daily prayer and trust that God will provide for our every need when we need it. This is a season for being wise with HAND WASHING AND HYGIENE. This is the season for RETHINK ACTIVITIES outside of home to minimize spread of virus. This is a season for being especially CAREFUL WITH WORDS you speak- as children and the vulnerable don't need to hear fear being broadcast.

4. Say yes to prayer. God responds to believers' prayers. There are ample promises in the bible for believers to turn to God during times of crisis. I am continually turning to God for answers to simple problems that I hadn’t thought about before. I am thankful that answers are coming when I need them. If you want a scripture to meditate on then Psalm 91 is pertinent and Psalm 23 is a great classic. PRAY FOR OUR LEADERS as they wrestle with difficult choices. PRAY FOR A MEDICAL BREAKTHROUGH to bring healing and protection to our world. PRAY FOR OUR COMMUNITIES to show kindness in the midst of uncertainty. PRAY FOR MANY TO FIND PEACE WITH JESUS.

5. Say yes to love. Love looks like something. It is not passive. It is not selfish. It looks out for the broken the fearful the hurting in the world. When the Wuhan crisis started believers were the ones who stepped into the scene to bring hope love joy and peace. This is a season for looking out for your neighbours and check single and elderly people are doing ok. If you are unwell- self-isolate including from people in your own home, but if you are well, write notes or leave cards and phone numbers to check on others. Offering to share resources if needed and blessing others by praying for them and doing practical service are actions that MAKE JESUS VISIBLE TO THE WORLD AROUND US.

If you have personal needs at the present time, reach out for prayer ministry over the phone or internet. I believe that God is listening and responding to our heartfelt prayers.