The Coronavirus, otherwise known as COVID-19, has captured headlines around the world in the past few weeks. What started in China has spread across the globe. As I’m writing this, six cases have been confirmed in northern Virginia and there’s a high likelihood that the virus will eventually find its down way to Charlottesville too.
What should we do with that news? Lots of people have lots of different opinions on how threatening this virus is and how extreme our responses should be. With so much news every second, it’s hard to know what to believe. I’m not even going to pretend I can sort all of that out for you, but what I can offer are just a few basic principles to keep in mind.
1. Be driven by faith, not fear – Christians are people of faith, not fear (e.g. 2 Timothy 1:7). Our God created the heavens and the earth, our Savior defeated sin and death, and our Comforter is the power that raised Christ from the dead. This is the God we worship – and you belong to him (Psalm 100:3). He cares for every single one of your needs (Matthew 6:30-33). Fear is great for driving television ratings, but don’t let it drive you. Your Father is in control and you are in his hands.
2. Be wise – Even while we trust that God is in charge, we still want to use the wisdom he’s given us. Be sure you’re taking basic precautions to stay healthy. The CDC says that the best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed, so take sensible steps to avoid exposure. Avoid touching your face. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water. Disinfect surfaces around the house. That’s just being wise.
3. Be aware of others – Christians are people who put others first because we follow a Savior who put our needs ahead of his own (e.g. Philippians 2:3-4). One basic way we can live that out is by doing our best not to expose other people to sickness. Please stay home from corporate worship if you’re feeling sick. Sermons, Foundations, and giving are all available online. We’ll miss your bright and shining face on Sunday morning, but we’ll enjoy your company even more when you’re not contagious.
Are any of these principles profound? No, but it’s always worth being reminded. The Coronavirus is one more opportunity to express our faith. We’re neither fearful nor naïve. We trust that our Lord will never leave us or forsake us – because that’s what he said (Matthew 28:20).