How should a Christian respond to COVID – 19?

At a time when Coronavirus dominates the headlines, and our economy is disrupted with travel restrictions, closures, cancellations, Christians must be proactive. We are not called to withdraw and distance ourselves from others.

Sure, it is prudent to take precautions that slow the spread of the virus, but Christians must remember that we have been called to care for others. In the book of Matthew, we read these words of Jesus:

“Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’ Then the righteous will answer him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’“

Matthew 24:34-40

In practical terms, this means looking out for our neighbors, particularly those who are already ill, or those who may be quarantined. Are the elderly and infirm in your neighborhood being looked after? Are their families that need child care because the schools are closed? Are there individuals who need food or medicine but are unable to get it? Are there others who can’t afford their rent or mortgage payment because they have been laid-off? What about the students that are supposed to be engaged in online learning, but don’t have internet connections in their homes? Each of these situations provide opportunities for Christians to serve.

In addition, we should be praying; praying against the fear that permeates the hearts and minds of many, praying for the healing of bodies and hearts, praying for the protection of healthcare workers, emergency responders, people providing transportation and serving the public in stores, gas stations, and restaurants.  And, we should be praying for the grieving—those who have lost loved ones, and those who are cut off from loved ones.

Finally, as Christians we should be praying that we would be drawn closer to God so that we will hear and respond to his call to us during these difficult times.