Revealing Jesus Christ

“You will keep the mind that is dependent on You in perfect peace, for it is trusting in You” Isaiah 26:3

We are living in unprecedented times. The world at large is going through a pandemic in the form of covid-19. Governments, scientists and healthcare officials are trying to figure out what to do and working together to develop a much-needed cure. Our world is in crisis, we need help!

As they work round the clock seeking a solution, they continue to disseminate guidance and steps for us all, which is hoped will contain, reduce and prevent new infections of the virus. On the other hand, all outlets of social media have gone into overdrive with information overload; theories, reasons and proposed cures for covid-19.  It is easy to become overwhelmed by all this information coming at you from all sides. To be overwhelmed means to give room to anxiety, panic and ultimately fear.

How should we as Christians respond to the pandemic and all the information that comes with it?

In responding, I believe that first and foremost we must keep our focus on the one thing that has not changed even at this time- God. Focusing on Him will in turn direct our hearts and in turn actions.
Yes, we should follow through with the guidelines given to us such as washing our hands, staying at home and only venturing out when necessary, and continue to pray for God’s wisdom for our leaders and country. However, we should also use this opportunity to display Christ to the world around us.

‘We are to practice social distancing but not relational distancing’

We are relational beings which means even during this pandemic, even as we maintain social distancing or are in isolation, we need each other more than ever before. We should therefore use this opportunity to serve others. A phone call to someone who lives alone during this time is truly worth its weight in gold. Helping an elderly neighbour who is high risk and extremely afraid to go out with their weekly shopping might just save a life. Volunteering to pick up or drop off that much needed medical supplies to those in need could mean closing the gap between life and death. Registering with charities to call those who are feeling lonely and afraid, and providing assurance just by the sound of your voice, is invaluable. Sharing your gift or skill to take people’s minds off the pandemic and to keep them at home means you are doing your part. Sharing the message of Jesus Christ through friendly telephone or video calls might just save a soul. This is a time for us to show the world the meaning of a Christian.

It is a time to practice kindness, empathy, friendship (albeit through the telephone) and care in all ways possible.

How should we also manage all the information coming to us from all sides?

Approach with caution and much wisdom. Everyone out there seems to have a theory as to why this pandemic is here; from it being man-made in the lap, to the result of advancement in mobile telecommunications. Only God knows the whole truth as to what, how and why. Besides, once we get all that information, what are we doing to do about it? Panic prayer, open ourselves up to fear, increase our anxiety level ten notches up. If we are not careful the information out there will rob us of our peace of mind and invite fear to take centre stage.

Any information received should be verified by the Holy Spirit who resides within us. We should endeavour to seek His guidance with all such information, especially at this time.

The world is going through a major crisis, but this is a chance for us to partner with God and help others through. It is a time for us to reveal to the world who Jesus is and the reasons for our belief. It is an opportunity for us to not only share the gospel of Jesus but demonstrate it through our actions which might just save a soul.

Keep well & Keep safe.

Much Love, Remi