I watched as the virus began to spread, with more interest and concern than most, because I lived and worked in China and developed a love for the Chinese people and a distrust of their government. Many friends still have to live and work there to support their families. Even as I prayed for the Chinese people and our friends, I knew the situation was much worse than their government said it was. China first denied the virus existed and then delayed sounding the alarm. Before the world knew it, masses of unknowing carriers had left the epicenter and taken the virus around the globe! Now we’ve battled this virus for months and our country is slowly beginning to recover. Infections and death tolls continue to rise but at a much slower rate.
In the beginning I watched the news and followed the recommendations as they came out. I ordered a box of disposable masks from Amazon, back when our government said only the sick needed them. We had some masks from our China days, so I figured we were ok until our order arrived. I searched the stores for masks and bandanas just in case, but only found a few scarves for my wife. I ordered more masks and bandanas (at higher prices) after the government said we should wear face coverings. I discovered I had less disposable masks than I originally thought. My daughter ordered masks from her friend, but none for us. The military base where we shop mandated wearing masks, so I continued with my overused disposable one. I saw a Facebook friend was making masks, so out of desperation I ordered a few. Finally my daughter gave me one of the washable masks my son-in-law had found. Good thing, because until now, not one of the 100 masks I ordered have come in. They must be on the slow boat “from” China!
Even though I took precautions and I tried to buy protective masks and face coverings; I don’t rely on them for my protection. I don’t need to depend on the latest instructions from our government, because “My help comes from the LORD” (Psalms 121:2 NIV). Yes, I submit myself to those in authority, but rely on GOD. In some States they restricted Church attendance, but here in Texas our Governor allowed Churches to stay open. Our Pastor pleads the blood of JESUS over our sanctuary and our people and our doors have stayed open in faith!
Why did we not close down and stay home like many others? The Church must stay open during times of trouble like these, because it is more essential than grocery stores! We are told not to forsake the assembling of ourselves together, but to exhort one another as we see the day approaching (Heb 10:25) and that day is here! Can’t you minister to the people over the internet? We share our services on the internet for those who stay home, but how do you anoint someone with oil, lay hands on the sick, and pray the prayer of faith via the internet? Yes prayer can reach across distances, but people don’t respond the same. But this virus could be a matter of life and death! Exactly! “God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16 KJV) and someone might stay “safely” at home and miss out on their last chance to be really protected!
Wayne Lance (2020)