As the second wave scorches through our country like a ravaging fire, it is hard not to be affected. Every news channel on television and social media is filled with negative imagery which is often hard to even digest. The heart aches in ways we have never experienced before, as the news of the affected and their families haunt our every waking minute. In this insanity that has now become our reality, it is impossible to ascertain when this nightmare will end. A general mood of dismay covers the nation, and it is hard to see a silver lining. Our hands and legs seem tied as we feel powerless to control the circumstances surrounding us. As we frantically search for hope, let us guide you through five ways to cope.
An elderly evangelist, a friend of my grandfather, would often stay with our family. His quiet time prayers were notorious as sometimes he sounded like he was fighting aloud, and at other times he would break forth into song. This authentic expression of his true emotions towards God made him very relatable and highly effective. 1 Chronicles 16:11 says “Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always.” At these times when our emotions are on a roller-coaster ride, let us always look to the Lord and the strength He offers. Whether your prayers are songs of praise for His faithfulness, or a lament for all that you’ve lost, He understands and He hears our prayers, all He wants is for you to be real with Him.
At this time last year when the lock-down was in place, a friend of mine from a very meagre income background started to reach out to families in need. They sacrificed one meal a day to buy provisions for church members and neighbours who were out of a job. 1 John 3:17 says “If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?” Serving God through our generosity is crucial for the world to know that Jesus loves them. Your generosity can mean material or financial aid, it could also mean an enquiring phone call to show that you care. Whatever is your form of generosity, now is the time to live it.
The media has attributed the massive explosion of this second wave to the irresponsible gatherings all over the country. After Cain killed his brother Abel the Lord said to Cain, “Where is your brother Abel?” to which he replied “I don’t know. Am I my brother’s keeper?” (Genesis 4:9). Our irresponsible attitude during the pandemic can often be like Cain’s reply. When we wilfully encourage social gatherings, forget to wear our mask or maintain social distancing and hygiene, we fail to be our ‘brother’s keeper.’ Jesus summarized the law and the prophets in just two commandments, one of which is to “love your neighbour as you love yourself” (Mark 12:31). Let our concern for our neighbours be seen through our actions, as we act responsibly and strive to be our brother’s keeper.
When we lose someone dear to us perhaps one of the first realizations to hit us is “Oh! how I wish we had more time together.” Indeed, there is nothing that slips away quicker than time. Whether it is memories to be made or conflicts to be resolved, this period of uncertainty has taught us that time is of the essence. We no longer have the time to bear grudges or harbour unforgiveness. Jesus breathing His last said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34). If this is the attitude of Christ on the cross, how much smaller are the issues that concern us. If nothing else, this pandemic has shown us that even the strongest are weaker than we presume. So, let us make haste to set things in order and value wholly the time we have with people especially those who matter to us.
The daughter of a friend said to her mother, “Mom if I get Covid can you give my favourite doll to my little sister.” Struck by this statement from a 6-year-old, her mother questioned her on what made her say that, she replied, “Well, she is younger mom, she needs something to love.” Love is at the core of human emotion, and we all crave it. 1 Peter 4:8 says “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” In this pandemic let us make up our mind to be loving and kind especially to those with who we share our homes. It is easy to get irritated by the mundane, especially under the present circumstances where we live with the same company every day. Sometimes we are so wrapped up in our work from home situations and the dullness of daily life that we forget to be emotionally present for those we love. Your intentional attitude of love can make a difference to those closest to you, so love deeply.
As we wade through these unfamiliar waters, let us resolve daily to be better stewards of His grace. Let our actions demonstrate His nature, and may we bring hope to those who are struggling to cope.
– Rebekah Vijayan
