Christian Response to COVID-19- WWJD?

Hello, friends.

We're living in a crazy world. I don't need to tell you that.

COVID-19 has affected all of us in more ways than one: our lives have been rearranged, thousands are sick and dying, and we're not sure how/when this will end or what the future will look like. These are scary times for the world.

Today I wanted to write a few words about something that has been on my heart and mind lately. With everything that's going on in the world, some of the responses I've been seeing from my fellow Christians have been a little bit concerning. Throughout the internet, I see so many posts from Conservative Christians complaining about this quarantine, the lockdowns, government control, etc. I see posts protesting the policies and regulations that have been put in place to slow the spread of the virus and protect those who are most vulnerable.

I'm not going to get into politics in this post... I'm just going to suggest that there are much, much more important things than politics going on right now, and that political posts are not the best way for Christians to respond to a worldwide pandemic.

I recognize that quarantine and lockdowns are not a perfect solution- the economic downfall is hurting people, being stuck at home is a terrible situation for victims of domestic abuse, children whose safe place was their school have lost that. I'm not pretending that there are no down sides to the rules the government has implemented- however, I do not believe that the best way for Christians to respond is to stir up strife and angrily protest the government. This isn't the time for that.

We have to remember that these precautions are being taken in hopes of stopping the spread of a virus that has taken thousands of lives. When we ignore social distancing guidelines or complain about having to stay at home and not being able to go where we want and do what we usually do, it often implies that we don't prioritize the safety of those around us. Suggesting that the government is taking it too far or that only those who are most vulnerable should have to change their lifestyle makes it seem as though we value the rights we feel we are losing over the safety and peace of our neighbors. Christians should be carefully examining their priorities during this time.

And isn't it kind of amazing that the entire world is taking these measures to protect those who might be at higher risk? If we're Christians who call ourselves Pro-Life, shouldn't we celebrate this protection of the weakest among us?

The world is going to great lengths to protect the weak and vulnerable- isn't that what Jesus would do?

WWJD- What would Jesus do? It's a simple and somewhat cliché phrase, but it really can help us know how we can best represent Christ to the world.

What would Jesus do? Would he prioritize his rights, or would he share hope, love those around him, and protect the weak and vulnerable?

Many have said that if we as Christians trust in God, we should not be operating out of fear. I completely agree with that: I know that I don't need to be afraid of COVID-19; I trust God, my hope is in Him, and I know that whatever happens, He is in control.

But not everyone has that hope. So many do not know the God who protects us, fights for us, and gives us strength and joy. So instead of stirring up unease with conspiracy theories and complaints against the government, let's share more than ever the hope, joy, and love of Jesus!

When this is over, do we want the world to remember how many Christians protested the COVID-19 policies that were meant to save lives? Or do we want Christians to be remembered because they were peaceful, didn't panic because of COVID-19 or the government, remained hopeful and joyful even in the midst of suffering, loved their neighbors well, and prioritized the safety of those around them?

Christian brothers and sisters, let's do our best to focus on the needs of others instead of our own desires and opinions. Let's make sure that however we respond to these events, our words and actions exemplify the love of Christ. We cannot meet with our church families in person, but thankfully the church is not a place. The church is the people, and right now we have an amazing opportunity to be the church to a hurting world.

We know that our hope is secure in Jesus Christ- let's share that much-needed hope with the world! Let us respond in kindness and love. Let us live by these words:

"No one should seek their own good, but the good of others." (1 Corinthians 10:24)

"By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another."

(John 13:35)

"Follow God's example, therefore, as dearly beloved children, and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God."

(Ephesians 5:1-2)

Thank you for reading, and Happy Easter!

-Anna