By Ralphine Major

The magnitude of our nation’s most recent health crisis has been mind boggling.  Only one week ago I was writing about what I thought was big news—no fans would be allowed at the NCAA Basketball Tournaments.  That seems like a year ago.  Since then, the intensity of the Coronavirus has escalated dramatically.

Our fast-paced world has come to a grinding halt.  Our new normal has become a virtual world—virtual meetings, virtual classes, virtual church, and even telehealth doctor appointments for seniors.  “Social distancing” has been added to our vocabulary.  Closed and cancelled signs are everywhere, including the malls.  I heard from a parent this week whose travel on the job has come to a halt.  With families asked to stay at home, he said it has been nice to be able to spend time with his teenagers.  The “stay at home” guideline gives families more bonding time.  Some parents are using this time at home to teach their children how to cook and even do laundry.

Clergy, doctors, and politicians have encouraged people to pray.  The President declared a National Day of Prayer, though many churches were closed out of precaution.  Easter is just weeks away.  That day alone should give hope that we can endure this crisis.  Be blessed with these words in Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV):  “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”