Isaiah 30:15 This is what the Sovereign Lord, the Holy One of Israel, says: “In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength, but you would have none of it.” (NIV)
Like most of us, I’ve seen photos of people in Florida crowding at the beaches as if they are invincible and totally immune to the coronavirus. I’ve looked at posts from my friends in Scotland of townsfolk doing the same. Instead of following medical guidelines and listening to the experts, some people feel as though they know it all and don’t need to adhere to instructions that are meant to reduce this contagion. Sadly, this doesn’t surprise me – folks can be as stubborn as mules and really ‘ornery, especially when they are being told what to do.
God felt the same way with His ancient people. He gave them words to reassure and pacify them, to keep them safe and free from their fears, but instead of applying God’s greater wisdom, the people did their own thing. In the end, God had to leave them to the dire consequences of their foolish and faithless ways. If they thought they knew better, they were in for a severe shock. Let us hope and pray then, that common sense and medical opinion, and not selfish intuition or gut feelings, will prevail during this crisis.
Prayer: Lord God, You have already given us guidance about this virus through those who have dedicated their lives to confronting and conquering diseases. Open our hearts and minds to their wisdom and let us truly listen to their expert advice. In Your Holy Name, we humbly pray. Amen.