Proper Corona Perspective

The saying goes that when it rains, it pours. However, I think this week has been closer to a hurricane in comparison.

Picture from LA Times

Unless you live under a rock, and probably even then, you are likely well aware of all the coronavirus news. Basically within a week, much of the country has shut down with severely limiting flights from over seas, closing Disney World, schools, churches, ending sports seasons, and much more. People have hoarded supplies, such as toilet paper, in order to stay inside their homes and not spread infection.

Taking precautions is not a bad thing, we need to care for the bodies we have while living in a fallen world. I'm limiting my outings and trying to avoid crowds. However, we also need to attempt to keep a clear mind and look at the full picture. At this point at least, the number of people with coronavirus, and related deaths, is much fewer than the flu and other illnesses. Also, no matter what we do for preventing illness, we have no ultimate say in it.

Isaiah 45:7 says in part, "...I make peace and create calamity; I, the Lord, do all these things." We need to remember that in every situation, God is in control. In my nightly Bible reading, I started with Job earlier this week and again see how God allowed suffering as a test. We also need to keep in mind that at some point through some way, (sickness, injury, or accident) everyone is going to die.

Statistics say over 151,000 people die around the world every 24 hours. God tells us it is appointed once for a person to die, and then face judgment. Only those that have truly repented of their sins and trust alone in Jesus' saving grace alone (not based on works or good deeds) will receive eternal life. For those that haven't, they can only look forward to eternal suffering, worse than anything experienced in life.

Whether it's soon or in several weeks, or months, the coronavirus pandemic will pass. After that, life will likely get back to normal. Until then, use this time as a reminder how quickly life can change. Don't wait until you're sick or suffering from some disease to come to God. Let today be the day of salvation and look forward to a new heaven and earth where there will no longer be any death or suffering.