What a time to be alive, huh? This pandemic that is sweeping the globe has kinda taken us all by surprise, no? Is it possible to not fear such an unknown?
Fear is one of the seven natural emotions.
Fear arises with the threat of harm, either physical, emotional, or psychological, real or imagined. While traditionally considered a “negative” emotion, fear serves an important role in keeping us safe as it mobilizes us to cope with potential danger.
But fear, however "important" it may be, can control us.
Fear can find a way to rule our lives to the point of debilitation. Fear has a way of creeping into those little spaces in an otherwise solid faith, and destroying us - be it as individuals, a community or in this case - the world.
Fear is real, and should be respected, but fear should not rule our lives.
With COVID-19, the same applies. I believe you need to respect it, not fear it.
You see – I believe COVID 19 has been around (I am not a Dr. or Scientist but that is my uneducated opinion) far longer than we’ve known. One reason this situation has escalated catastrophically is because it has a name - COVID-19 (of course, there are other reasons I don’t want to cover here). Now we can identify it as something, and that creates hysteria. Before it was identified, it could have been misdiagnosed for pneumonia, or some other strand of the seasonal flu. But it was COVID-19. Unexplainable cough, fever, URI (upper respiratory infection), weakness - yup, COVID-19.
So, what, right? We didn't know about it; therefore we had no reason to fear it.
But why is it that, because an unknown virus has been labeled, hysteria erupts and the whole globe is shut down?
Think of it like a hurricane during its beginning phases of even becoming a hurricane. Just a few clouds getting together, hangin’ out. Eventually more and more sanguin clouds start joining up and then it turns into a tropical storm, and then it is given a name and monitored by all.
Anyways, hysteria erupts because of fear. Fear of the unknown, and rightfully so. This virus has taken way too many lives to not be feared. But rather than fear it.
I happen to work in a Medical Facility - albeit - in IT, but I am still in the field, supporting those that are on the front lines of caring for people that contract COVID-19. That alone has changed my perspective on this entire situation, immensely.
COVID-19 absolutely should be respected, but not feared. Even for the elderly or immunocompromised, fearing such a virus can be even more deadly than the virus itself.
But how?
And why?
Let me explain.
Remember when I said that the reason this situation has escalated so rapidly is because we know NOTHING about this new virus. It may have a name, but experts are working around the clock to figure out a cure, a vaccination, or steps to follow to save people that contract the virus.
But...
The same applies to other things. One in particular that comes to mind is the True Hope. The True Hope has a name too, a way to identify Him - His name is Jesus. That is how we respect COVID-19 - not fear it.
Jesus gives us hope, and the confidence to face the unknown. Not just with COVID-19, but with anything that life throws our way.
Hope has a name, His name is Jesus
My Savior's cross has set this sinner free
Hope has a name, His name is Jesus
Oh, Christ be praised, I have victory”
River Valley Worship
So, why even write this? It’s all people are talking about.
Easy. Hope.
Because fear is a liar. Fear, like I mentioned before, can creep its way into our hearts, our souls and our faith, and can take over. But we can't allow fear to do this - especially in times like these. Fear can creep in and control our thoughts, leading us to question life as we know it, life without hope.
Jesus didn't die for us to simply go about our business, living a life that is determined by the world. Jesus died to show us that He is the only Hope we need. The only Hope that can conquer any battle. The only Hope who controls everything - including this virus.
People, please don’t lose hope - because hope has a name, His Name is Jesus.
He is in control. He knows all that we are going through. He knows what we are feeling and believing. You want a way to relieve the stress and anxiety that you are feeling right now? Pray. 1 Chronicles 16 is a fantastic chapter in the bible to read during a time like this. Hold steadfast to the Word of God.
Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.
Deuteronomy 31:6
Thanks for reading.
Strahl