During the second week of March, 2020, the United States “officially” began… its journey of addressing what became an international pandemic. Some have estimated millions of people around the world have been impacted by or died as a result of Covid-19, and it’s estimated that 70,000 new cases of Covid and its variants occur each week. So what have we learned?

In her article published this past weekend, Betsy Morris of the Wall Street Journal wrote that “had we known that the virus could be transmitted by breathing tiny aerosol particles that could linger in the air and travel far beyond our six feet of social distancing…we could have taken more effective measures to control the spread.” She also suggested doctors and health officials could have done a better job at collaborating and clearly communicating the nature of a virus to maintain public trust. Morris continued, “If we’d known how damaging lockdowns would be to mental health, physical health and the economy, we could have taken a more strategic approach to closing businesses and keeping people at home.”

Difference in Approach & Perspective

Elliott McLaughlin of CNN wrote that our response to the recent health crisis “raises an important question about how we, as a country, define strength: Is it clinging to our freedom…or reaching out and sacrificing…to ensure the safety of our fellow Americans.” For the Christ-follower, the important question of defining strength might be rephrased to ask, “Is it clinging to our freedoms in Christ…or laying our lives down for the sake of the Gospel?” The divide among believers was undeniable with those who followed government mandates and health officials’ counsel often at odds with brothers and sisters of the Faith who believed that they were called to civil disobedience and continue community worship and service.

Trust Vs Fear

Pastor and teacher, Chuck Swindoll, offers this encouragement, writing, “While the world is in turmoil because of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, we can rest in God’s promise to never forsake us during uncertain times. Let’s agree to trust and not be afraid. Let’s also keep in mind that our God is still in full control. And, finally, let’s remember that we are not alone. He loves us with an infinite amount of love and, therefore, will never release His grip on our lives.” For additional encouragement, you may want to read these additional articles. And, be sure to listen to Insight for Living with Chuck Swindoll, heard weeknights at 9:00 on KAMB.