The whole world is currently facing crisis. We are in the midst of health problems that attack everyone equally, no matter your gender, nationality, or class. Many feel fear, others anger, and some are indifferent. During times of crisis, we see people rush to the grocery store to over stock their homes thinking, “Just in case everything runs out and I can’t buy it later.” We see people who pay no mind to the guidelines and recommendations from the authorities and take advantage of the “free vacation time” to go out and party with friends.
People are working from home. People are experiencing breaks from their normally demanding jobs. There are people who simply don’t have the privilege to stay at home because if they don’t work, they don’t eat.
Some stay home to protect their families and some must go out to also protect their family.
This is the reality that we are facing. This is what our normal day to day has become. No matter what our circumstances are, there is one thing that is not optional. We must confront this situation and act as Christ would have us to against this global crisis.
I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33
They say that times of crisis bring out the worst in people and we begin to show our true colors. These claims are easily proven in the pictures and news reports that have come out in the last weeks. Selfishness, anger, fear, greed, criticism, lack of reasoning; endless negative things that are being considered normal in our world. But what about the “Christians?” Are we not the ones called to be different? Are we not ambassadors for God’s kingdom here on earth? The answer to each question is yes.
It’s during the times of crisis that our trust in the Lord should overcome fear; when love should drive out hate that divides and destroys; when generosity should bring hope to those in need; when truth and integrity overcome selfish desire; when we experience peace that surpasses all understanding, and when Christ’s character becomes evident in our words and actions.
We are light in the midst of darkness. We are called to impact the world when its most needed.
You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house.16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. Matthew 5:14-16
May our light shine now. May it be so radiant that there is no doubt that Christ lives in us. May our every word and action be an opportunity for those that don’t know Him to be able to draw in and get to know the one that rescues us. May our social media be a deliverer of hopeful messages that glorify Christ.
Let’s pray for those in need. Pray for those who are desperate for relief. Pray for those who risk themselves every single day to provide for the ones they love. Pray for those who have lost their loved ones during this health crisis. Pray for opportunities to be His Hands and Feet wherever He takes us.
By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another. John 13:35