COVID 19 Encouragement - 04/13/2020

In many parts of the world, today is celebrated as Easter Monday. The day in which our Savior started his 40-day ministry of appearing to believers to strengthen their faith, continued healing of the sick and to provide evidence to doubters of His divinity and that He “truly (is) the Son of God.” (Matt27:54). I find it no coincidence that as we battle Covid-19 that we find ourselves in the same season of 2000 years ago, the faithful having the opportunity to minister to those who doubt or don’t know Him. An opportunity to share the hope we have in Him with others.

I (Dave) am blessed to continue to work, to meet with members of my team every day through technology. In checking in with each other I see firsthand what effect the lack of faith; the fear, worry, and lost hope has on my co-workers. Many having enough understanding as we pray for an impacted members’ family, while lacking the knowledge of the comfort that can be brought to their own lives through trust in Jesus.

We use the colors of green (good), yellow, and red (bad) to provide status. Many report feelings of red or yellow at best. Please join me in prayer for all those that are walking in fear that, despite circumstances, things are as green as before as God continues to be control.

Jesus, during Your ministry on Earth You showed Your power and caring by healing people of all ages and stations of life from physical, mental, and spiritual ailments. Be present now to people who need Your loving touch because of COVID-19. May they feel Your power of healing through us, your children.

Take away the fear, anxiety, and feelings of isolation from people per the wisdom You gave through others to limits this diseases impact. Give them a sense of purpose in pursuing health and protecting others from exposure to the disease. Protect them, their families and friends and bring peace to all.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

—Philippians 4:6 (NIV)

Reports indicate that we may have seen the peak in several areas, that the number of cases is starting to increase at a decreasing rate. As our leaders look to how best ‘restart’ our country we pray that the very best of us is sought out for council, that individuals of faith as well as world knowledge are included in the decision making. That our leaders find a way to come together for the good of the nation, putting political and personal ambition aside in service to the 330 million people of the United States.

Father, we seek Your wisdom daily. Be with people making decisions that affect the lives and futures of our families, communities, countries, and the wider world. We pray that they communicate clearly, truthfully, and calmly — with each other and with the public — and that their messages are received and heeded. May truth and empathy be the touchstones of people setting policies for our protection. In Jesus name, Amen!

He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us again. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us, as you help us by your prayers …

—2 Corinthians 1:10-11 (NIV)

Dave & Michelle McWethy