One result of this pandemic for me is the realization of how much I have been taking for granted. Such as going to work, going where ever I want whenever I want, going to stores without people looking at you suspiciously, and not being afraid to scratch my nose in public.
It reminds me of the teaching of Jesus in Matthew 6:19-21-- “Do not gather for yourselves riches on earth. Moths and rats can destroy them. Thieves can break in and steal them. 20 Instead, gather for yourselves riches in heaven. There, moths and rats do not destroy them. There, thieves do not break in and steal them. 21 Your heart will be where your riches are.
We might paraphrase this to say, "Do not gather for your selves the things of this world. Pandemics can happen and turn your whole world upside down.”
As we adjust to the uncomfortable and uncertain conditions of our new situation it should remind us of the words of the old hymn, that “this world is not {our] home, we’re just a passin’ through. If heaven’s not [our] home, oh, Lord what will [we] do?” Jesus reminds us that all of this that has become so important to us will one day all pass away. It will all turn to dust. We must remember that in the light of eternity, all of this is just a second in time.
While all the information concerning this virus can become overwhelming we must remember that Jesus warned us that such things would happen. In John 16:33 Jesus said, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
In light of this assurance we can find comfort in Jesus’ words in John 14:1--“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me.
It is my prayer for you that in the midst of this new difficulty you will find your faith strengthened and your hope renewed.
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