Read Isaiah 55:22 and Matthew 28:28-30
Life changed. There is no doubt about it. We used to eat at the kitchen table; now we work at it. Sundays were filled with Bible class followed by a packed crowd in the worship auditorium and lunch with extended family or friends afterward; now we heat up frozen dinners after an online service and then Zoom with our Bible class on Sunday evenings. We used to hate going to the grocery store; now we long for the day when we can safely do so again.
For some, these changes and so many more are upsetting; for others, peace prevails. Many live with fear and anxiety, wondering if they or a loved one will be diagnosed with COVID-19; others approach each day with calmness and serenity with complete trust in the Great Physician. Some are trapped daily in the grip chaos; others flow freely throughout each day like a peaceful river headed downstream.
What accounts for the difference?
Often our state of mind is influenced by what we are reading, with whom we are talking, or to whom we are listening. Newspapers and websites are filled with list, charts, diagrams, numbers, names and ages of those who have died, number of cases confirmed, number of cases expected, when the peak will occur, and how long a decline will take. The mayor, the governor, the president, and the head of the health department broadcast at least two reports each day.
We want to be informed, but the information we are receiving can lead to stress UNLESS our hearts and minds are fixed on the One Who is in control. The psalmist tells us how to do that:
“Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.” Psalm 55:22
Now that makes all the difference!
We are not required to carry the weight of the world’s burdens, even in a pandemic. We can trust God to do that for us. Jesus gave us the instructions on how to do that in the Gospel of Matthew 11:28-30. He said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Give your worries to God. Embrace His peace that passes all understanding.
Father, fill our hearts with confidence in Your Sovereignty. You are the One Who is in control. You will always come out on top, and we want to be right there with You. Your plan will be completed. You will bring good from evil. In the meantime, grant us your perfect peace and keep us faithful until the end. In the Name of Jesus, Amen!