In the span of a few weeks, the world has been turned upside down. We find ourselves in situations that are completely out of our control. The things we’ve taken for granted like going to work, school, dining out, attending church or popping by the store for milk and toilet paper suddenly aren’t so easy. We’ve been stripped of life’s simple pleasures.

With little to no warning, we are living with a brand new normal that involves a great deal of uncertainty and a heaping helping of fear.

This is not the plot for a science fiction movie with an alternate universe. Our lives now revolve around alarming statistics and imposed directives to practice social distancing and remain at home. The craziness currently gripping our nation is stirring up a lot of unprecedented worries.

Feeling fear is something we all do – even Christians. The Bible doesn’t tell us we shouldn’t feel fear – but rather it directs us on how to respond when we are plagued by fear.  God knows the world is filled with evil and can be a scary place. That’s why His Word contains at least 356 “DO NOT FEAR” references - one for every day of the year.

As Christ followers, we have been presented with a unique opportunity because of COVID-19. We have more opportunities than ever to witness to our unsaved loved ones and neighbors who may be consumed with panic. Are we that beacon of light drawing the lost in and sharing our faith in Christ or are we cowering at home consumed with worry like much of the world?

We know this pandemic will end and that Jesus is still Lord. This pandemic is no surprise to God and certainly not too big for Him to handle. As we practice social-distancing and adapt to quarantine mandates, we can still be used by God in BIG ways. Social media and our smart phones are all great mediums for messaging, texting, calling and encouraging others during these difficult days.

Let us not forget the importance of prayer either. Many of us have more time on our hands than ever, so it’s important to pray for each other. We need to lift up the sick, the caregivers, first responders and our government officials who are tasked with making difficult decisions and risking their own health to treat the sick and beat this virus.

When all is said and done, brothers and sisters … I pray we can be the hope!

The Lord is good, a strong refuge when trouble comes. He is close to those who trust in him.

Nahum 1:7 (NLT)

Kathy Kurlin
Author