The COVID-19 Tsunami
“Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord” James 5:14 (NIV).
Covid-19 (coronavirus) entered the world like that of a tsunami. A tsunami is a wave or series of enormous ocean waves caused by earthquakes or undersea volcanic eruptions in the sea, underwater landslides, or asteroids. The Japanese word tsu means to “harbor”; nami means “wave”. A tsunami can kill or injure people and do damage or destroy buildings and infrastructure as waves come in and go out. Covid-19 is an illness caused by a virus that can spread from person to person. The virus that causes Covid-19 is a new coronavirus that has spread throughout the world and has gained significant global media attention. Symptoms can range from mild (or no symptoms) to severe illness. There is currently no vaccine to protect against Covid-19 and the disease can make anyone sick regardless of their age, race, ethnicity, culture, religion, or beliefs. Everyone is at risk of getting Covid-19.
Bible prophecy says devasting disease pandemics are on the horizon. During times of difficulty and stress, many turn to the Bible for answers and strength. The Bible is not silent when it comes to disease and sickness. Jesus healed a variety of diseases and sicknesses. God rewards obedience! The concept of obedience in the Old and New Testament relates to the hearing of a higher authority. Biblical obedience to God means to hear, trust, submit, and surrender to His word. When we are being obedient to God, we are developing a deeper intimate relationship with Him. To do this, we must be attentive to God’s laws. Obedience to God proves our love and demonstrates our faith. We must plant His word into our hearts and water it by Christian growth.
Covid-19 has brought an immense wave of sorrow and confusion. We don’t want to ride the wave of hurt, rejection, and pain. No one wishes for the hard times in life or suffering. We should be thankful for the truth that God promises to bring good from the storms of devastation. He is bigger than any storm we face! God works through doctors, nurses, scientists, first responders, and healthcare professionals. We must pay attention to trusted expert sources to help fight this disease. He never promised us this life would be easy, but He does promise that He is bigger than any storm we face.
Covid-19 can take on another meaning: Christ Overcomes Vicious Infectious Diseases. Psalm 19, written by King David, declares that what humans see is a living testament to the existence, glory, and power of God. The Apostle Paul reiterates this fact in Romans 1:19, when he writes, “Since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them” (NIV). Let this be a time to draw near to Him. During this difficult time, let God be your wave of hope and rest in the harbor of Jesus’ love.