Coronavirus Pandemic
The word “pandemic” comes from two Greek words. Pan, meaning “all” and demos meaning “people.” In other words, all people are susceptible to a viral pandemic. As we have watched for the last few weeks, the spread of Covid-19 has been breathtaking. For this moment in history, it seems as if humanity is realizing that we have a common enemy that we need to fight together. The spread of this virus has been indiscriminate and lethal. At this moment almost 12,000 people have lost their lives and many more surely will. Many are asking, “where is God in all of this?” I think that this is a very important question. Is this a specific judgement? Is God indifferent to our pain? What’s the lesson in all of this?
The “Sin Pandemic” came first
I am not a prophet. I definitely wouldn’t claim that this is a specific worldwide judgement because of a specific sin that humanity is collectively guilty. However, we do know that all of humanity was infected by a 100% lethal virus before Coronavirus, called “sin.” Because sin entered the world, judgement of the world was also handed down to humanity. As a part of that judgement, all sicknesses like Ebola, HIV and Coronavirus exist. In Genesis the 3rd chapter, we read that the results of our first parents would lead to a “sin pandemic” that would touch all humanity. Paul says in Romans 5:12, “Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, in this way death spread to all people, because all sinned.” All sin and death that entered the world from the Garden of Eden forward reminds us of the Garden being the epicenter of our first pandemic, sin and the result being death. The rate of death of all people in the world is still 100%. As my mom always said, “we ain’t getting out of this thing alive” (meaning life). So, is coronavirus a specific judgement of God? I don’t know, but it should definitely remind us that when sin entered the world, so did sicknesses, suffering and death. It should also remind us that we don’t have to be afraid. We have the ultimate antidote to sin, death and the coronavirus. One who could conquer sin, and death to ultimately save us.
Is God indifferent to our pain?
Absolutely not! In fact, God has provided for us the antidote to the sin infection. Jesus took the results of our infection (sin) upon himself and died in our place. While the effects of the judgement of sin (death) are still with us until he comes again, we know that we don’t have to fear death. God is not indifferent to our pain. He took on flesh and blood and became one of us (Jn. 1:1-3). We also know that God hears our prayers and many times those prayers become the means that God has foreordained to be answered. God is kind and loving (Ps. 145:8). During times like these we need to draw near to God. Trust God and live out what we say we believe. You have heard this verse so many times it has almost become cliché. Don’t let it be, but take in these words, “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” (Romans 8:28). He is not indifferent. Pray fervently with your family during this time. Ask God to help you and your family to learn from all of this.
What’s the lesson in all of this?
Life is brief, we are all infected with mortality and our only hope is Jesus Christ. Christian, don’t let fear control you. Be wise, listen to the counsel of medical professionals, but remember, “we ain’t getting out of this thing alive” anyway. Draw near to your good Father who isn’t indifferent, but very near in times of distress. Remember that you have the ultimate antidote to the global pandemic of sin and death. It’s the man, Jesus Christ. As the coronavirus continues to rip through the world remember “And there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among men by which we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12)