Coronavirus? From Grief to Joy!
By Helen Man
Worries about Coronavirus
Since the outbreak of COVID-19, the USA has been the world’s epicenter. The survey on July 2 already showed 2.8 million confirmed cases and 131,000 deaths. As COVID-19 hit hard, people were ordered to stay home except for essential work or needs. Even schools and workplaces were switched to be online. Going out must be fully equipped with face masks, gloves, social distances, etc. Shopping malls, retail stores, restaurants, theaters, and museums were closed. The world has come to a pause.
Everyday news has been reporting the rapid growth of COVID-19. Also, some people in social networks have been spreading rumors about COVID-19. We seemed to live under the dark clouds. Besides the changes in the quality of life due to COVID-19, we were facing a financial crisis when unemployment rates jumped up to 13.3% in May!
COVID-19 & Social Crisis
As we were expecting the decline of COVID-19, racial unrest arose due to the death of George Floyd, caused by police violence. We haven’t seen violent protests or riots like these for the past 6 years! Protesters began with peaceful demonstrations but turn into burning police cars, occupying places to reject the police, robbing stores, and requesting to defund the police in different states.
In addition, more people have been tested positive in many states in the USA such as Florida, Texas, and Arizona. Therefore, shut-down orders immediately resumed in these states. Schools might not be reopened in September. Economic recovery would be halted again.
Life is filled with storms: death in the family, health problems, financial losses, unemployment, closing of a small business, and family tragedies. We hopelessly panic over this pandemic. When will it end? When will the USA recover and prosper like before?
How do we overcome these problems? How can life be filled with joy and hope again?
Know the Creator
The pandemic made us realize that life is temporal and uncertain. The bible tells us that life doesn’t simply end at death: “Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment.” (Hebrews 9:27) How can we sinners face the holy God for judgment? Again the Bible says: “and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.” (Romans 3:24) So let’s grab the opportunity to trust Jesus as our Savior in this world of uncertainty!
Revival of Life
“Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.” (John 1:12) Our lives are filled with blessings to become the children of God. For example, the love of God satisfies our hearts and His Spirit helps us in times of need. Even when the fear of death is near, God’s Spirit stays with us to give us peace and hope. “For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands. Meanwhile, we groan, longing to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling.” (2 Corinthians 5:1-2)
Revival of Spiritual Life
Jesus said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthews 11:28) We may get strength and comfort by reading the Bible since we spend more time at home now. We may also attend online church meetings to get spiritual nourishment and pray for ourselves, friends, relatives, and the country.
Revival of relationships with family
In the past, we might be busy at work outside and wanted to relax in the evening by watching sports or having entertainment online. Our children might be having fun with their friends somewhere. Our families might hardly spend time together. Our mealtimes might have been different and our homes could become “hotels” for “room and board” only! However, this pandemic has pulled us together at home. Let’s spend time with our spouses and children, talking and planning some fun activities together like sharing cooking recipes, discussing our favorite books, or doing a big clean up at home.
Revival of more relationships
During the pandemic, it’s a great time to call our friends and relatives even though we are not able to visit them. We can show care and provide help if possible. We may also share the gospel with them.
Truly, by the grace of God, we will turn a crisis into an opportunity! Please keep your eyes on Jesus and accept His salvation today. You will surely experience how to turn grief into joy.
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