One of the most-repeated commands in the Bible is to “fear not.” Jesus told us in the Sermon on the Mount not to worry about tomorrow. And Paul assured the Philippian Christians,
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, 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. Philippians 4:6-7
At the very same time, the Bible has a lot to say about caution and preparedness. The writer of Proverbs told us to see the ant as an example of storing away in summer the provisions we’ll need in winter. We’re to put on the armor of God and be ready for spiritual battle. And Jesus warned the Jewish people in Matthew 24 that Jerusalem would be besieged and to run far away from the city when the time came.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) is everywhere in the news and we are seeing the initial impact of cases being discovered in almost every state and the inevitability of community spread.
So, should you fear? Or fear not?
Should you worry about it? Or worry not?
It’s never too early to take the right steps. While we as a church family have always cared about one another’s spiritual health, we’re concerned about one another’s physical health as well—especially with the news surrounding coronavirus (COVID-19). We are intent on being as proactive as possible to create safe and clean environments for us to worship in. As we continue to gather for our church services, you can be confident that these are the steps we’re taking to prevent the spread of germs:
- All common areas are regularly cleaned and disinfected, especially our Kids spaces and meeting rooms, using hospital grade cleaners to dust and disinfect handles, restrooms, tables, chairs, etc.
- We’ve increased the amount of facial tissue available in and around our worship and meeting spaces.
- Hand sanitizer is available throughout our worship and meeting spaces.
Here’s what you can do:
- Greet one another with a smile and a simple “hello.”
- Wash your hands with soap and water for at least twenty seconds, about how long it takes to sing the ABCs or two-times through Happy Birthday to You.
- Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer (at least 60 percent alcohol) if soap and water are not available.
- Limit contact with those who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- If you or your children are under the weather, stay home and enjoy our sermon re-broadcast on our website during the week.
- Be understanding and supportive when others need to stay home.
We would also encourage you to pray for the people and families that have been hit particularly hard by this virus.
We love you and we’re praying for you.