The most significant impact of COVID-19 is the grinding halt of our previous lives. We were a people on the go, filling our days with what seemed like endless activities and appointments. Now people are home, either working, teaching their kids or just spending time together. One question that is asked frequently is “where is God in this?” Did He let this happen or why did He let it happen?
Our current situation made me think of the Old Testament story of Elijah. 1 Kings 19:11-12 tells of a time when God was going to pass by Elijah (God was going to reveal Himself to Elijah). There was an earthquake, windstorm and fire, but the Bible says God wasn’t in them. I wonder if God was in those events but couldn’t be heard because of all the distractions. Then came silence and a still small voice, and Elijah heard God speaking. The earthquake, wind and fire remind me of our former “normal” lives. Lives so chaotic, busy and noisy that we could not hear God’s voice. Now, with the social distancing and stay at home requirements, there is a quietness that allows us to hear God’s voice. I pray we don’t miss this opportunity to listen and grow closer to God.
I don’t know if God caused this situation to get our attention. Psalms 46 says “be still and know that I am God.” Maybe we’ve been given a heavenly a-hem. This pandemic has given us all the chance to be still. Let’s not waste it.
Jeff Cooper
