“I’m scared da” wrote a parent on the school parents’ group. Fear in a time of pandemic and uncertainty is natural and understandable. But we have hope through the Bible which assures us that God never leaves us nor forsakes us. My kids and I were reading of King David from the Bible dancing and rejoicing before God; he did this because God’s presence was with them, and we have that same privilege because He dwells in us too.
So, what can we do? Health and government advisories have requested us to stay at home, to avoid gatherings, and to practise social distancing. Which means that this is a great time filled with immense opportunities – if we are willing to let go of our smart devices and turn off Netflix. Here are some things we can do.
Reach out: Call those who are isolated, send a text, let people know that you care. Deliver groceries to someone who needs it.
Celebrate others: Instead of breaking out a new season of Peppa, or spending endless time on WhatsApp, bring out Scrabble and Pictionary, make meals together, paint together, play tag, tell stories, read together, in short, do something to celebrate each other.
Learn something: There are endless online courses and tutorials – quilting, building models, peer counselling, coding, crochet, baking, guitar, chord work, the list is endless.
Draw near: Here is our chance to finish reading through the Bible, to memorise Scripture, to practise lettering our favourite verses, to begin journaling, to pray through what we read, to study the Bible more deeply.
Pray more: Pray for those who are ill, those who have lost loved ones, for wisdom for our government and leaders, for protection for those on the frontline (healthcare and other service providers), for provision for those whose livelihoods are affected and for students living with uncertainty. We can now pray without ceasing because our rushing around has ceased.
Meet together: The early church enjoyed each other’s company, they met in homes before they were encumbered by buildings, and we can find creative ways to do the same using technology. The family can still be the church, because where two or three of us gather, God is in our midst.
When we abide in love, and we allow God to abide in us we can change the fear surrounding this pandemic into a time of love and joy.
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