Christ Over Covid-19: Finding Hope Amidst A Pandemic
"Without Christ there is no hope."
- Charles Spurgeon
Whenever tragedy strikes, whether in the form of a natural disaster, a disease, or a genocide, people around the world begin to ask questions. To answer their inquiring minds, they seek answers in many ways. Amidst the growing COVID-19 pandemic, every person and religion has a unique take on how to deal with the virus.
Many Christians still question whether God has a purpose for COVID-19: some believe it is a sign of the end times, others think God is punishing the world, and some view the virus with indifference.
In the eyes of a Christian, the coronavirus is much more than simply a virus. It is an opportunity for people to repent, a wake-up call for the Church to minister to those without hope, and a time of reflection among one's family. With many Christian organizations such as Samaritan's Purse helping the cause, it is no wonder that the world still tries to undermine the work of followers of Christ (as seen with NY Governor Andrew Cuomo [https://decisionmagazine.com/cuomo-god-did-not-stop-the-spread-of-the-virus/]).
Despite this, the Christian is called to be the hands and feet of Jesus, for Christ came to serve others (Mark 10:45). This is the opportunity that the Church has to be a voice for the voiceless, a source of hope for the hopeless, and a guide that leads people to the Savior of the world, Jesus Christ.
In addition, those who hold to a biblical perspective know that no matter the situation, they should live by Proverbs 3:5-6: "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." The Lord is sovereign; He is and always will be in control of everything. However, even if Christians are called to have faith and not fear, followers of Christ are to not be foolish. Even amid a pandemic, Christians should abide by the safety guidelines given by the government. At the same time, Christians should not be any less bold in their faith. Instead, they must "be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality" (Romans 12:10-13 NIV).
There is hope for the Christian (in life and death) because, through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus has given all people the gift of salvation, so "that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16 NIV).
This video answers the question:
How can Christians unite to serve our neighbors in time of need?
A Song about Our Hope in Christ:
