For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love, and of self-discipline. (2 Timothy 1:7 NIV)
Like a burst of flames, sunrise lit up the sky beyond the lake. A new day of opportunities awaited me.
Days and days of dire predictions and endless charts with numbers of those infected and deaths filled my mind. Huge numbers of schools, churches, businesses, and even Disney were closing.
Officials warned of horrible consequences from the Coronavirus. Guidelines for citizens to follow circulated in the media. After all the terrible news, newscasters and doctors said to remain calm.
Anyone who constantly watches and listens to the alarming newscasts becomes fearful and anxious.
The beautiful sunrise reminded me that the sun comes up every day. God doesn’t shut down His creation. Birds continue to sing joyously. Flowers bloom in vibrant colors. New leaves sprout from dormant branches even when our world is in turmoil.
In the chaos, we realize that we are not in control. Of course, we try to contain the illness and follow the guidelines for safety but we have no guarantee we won’t get sick. Reality hits that only God controls His world.
We can pray and reach out to those who are frightened. Phone calls, emails and text messages can include Scripture passages and words of hope.
Isolation from normal activities offers opportunities to fully engage with family and friends whether near or far away. In the quiet, we can take a walk and truly notice nature.
Read, do a craft, clean out closets, write a letter, play a game, paint a picture, accomplish neglected chores, watch funny shows, play an instrument… Endless possibilities surround us.
Instead of lamenting what we are missing and forming horrendous stories in our heads, we can focus on the present and be thankful for what we do have.
Just as panic spreads so can love and calmness.
Loving Father, in our distress and fears, give us peace and contentment. Amen
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