John 16: 33
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
Last week I had a rather unpleasant experience at a medical facility.
My husband and I are currently applying for permanent residency in Canada and as per procedure we needed to have medicals done. This was nothing new to us we had to do the same before we left South Africa. On the day of the appointment we drove to the medical facility and entered what we assumed were the correct doors, only to be abruptly told we were in the wrong waiting area and had to be on the other side of the building. I glanced at my husband, shrugged, and then ushered our children back outside to find the other door. After a lovely lady had checked us in, it was time for us to see the doctor. Now please don't misunderstand me, this is not a gripe about the rudeness of the doctor but merely an observation of the stressed out and fearful state of the health workers in Canada.
In fact, not only the health care workers but society itself. COVID has stolen so much from us. Time with our friends, classmates, schoolmates, churches folk and the list goes on. And to what end? Because everyone is afraid that someone close to them or some stranger on the street might or will pass on this dreaded illness that is sweeping across our world. This fear has led to stress, and that stress is breeding a loss of compassion.
In John 16:33 we read words Jesus said especially for a time like this. A time where fear is breathed into every news report, governmental announcement, school letter and discussion. The more we hear about COVID the more afraid we are and humans become frantic when worry crowds our every hour.
But there is good news.
Jesus has overcome the troubles of the world. Jesus has overcome COVID. Not maybe, not possibly, not he's still thinking about it. He has overcome by his complete work on the cross. We as Christians have an unfair advantage over the rest of society. Our God is stronger than fear, than COVID and than all the troubles we face. It is vital for us to remember this especially now.
So the next time you encounter someone who isn't wearing a mask or a tired healthcare worker who is short with you, think a moment about what Jesus did for us. And rest in that knowledge.
Colossian 3:12
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
Until next time.