"How to respond to the virus crisis", Malcolm Cox, Thames Valley churches of Christ

We are called to:

1. Prayer in place of anxiety (James 5:13-15; Philippians 4:6).
2. Empathy and compassion for those suffering (Matthew 9:36; Mark 5:34).
3. Action to comfort where we can (2 Corinthians 1:4; Matthew 14:14).
4. Making the most of every opportunity - sharing about the comfort Jesus can bring for those who don't yet know him (Acts 16:22-36).

What we don't know about the virus is not as important as what we do know about Jesus.

We know that the ultimate victory is his:

“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.” (John 16:33 NIV11)

We also know that nothing in this world can separate us from the love of Christ:

“Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?” (Romans 8:35 NIV11)

• It is sobering to see what is going on around the world as a reaction to the virus.
• Not only the deaths, illnesses and physical pain, but also the emotional anxiety and even panic.
• Let's do our best to be people who are alert to the realities of the consequences of the virus, and connected with people in their pain.
• Yet, also, to be those people who have a genuine hope and do not live in fear.

God bless, Malcolm