Carona Virus. Two words that have struck fear into the hearts of people around the globe. It has killed thousands and infected even more, but just how big is it, and should we fear it? I hope to answer these questions in this Devo.
First, the Carona virus isn't nearly as big as other viruses and diseases that the world has already seen and survived. Example one, the Black Death. Killing about 30% - 60% of Europe's population, it reduced the world's population from an estimated 475 million, down to an estimated 350-375 million people in the 1400's. Example two, the 1918 influenza pandemic. Infecting over 500,000,000 people worldwide, it killed up to 50,000,000 people worldwide, with about 675,000 of those deaths happening in the U.S. That's the low estimate. As you can see, the world, by God's grace, has bounced back from bigger, badder viruses in the past.
Next, should we fear this virus? The simple answer is no. Given the amount of sanitation and medical help we have in the world at large today, the fear of this disease is irrational. We should still be careful, and take precautions to try to not get sick, or get others sick, but as Christians, we shouldn't fear this virus - or anything, for that matter. And this leads nicely into my last point: How should we respond and/or help others during this time? Pray! pray for our leaders, pray for our country, pray for your neighbors, friends, family, and anyone you think of. You can also stay indoors or away from large crowds of people, especially airports, rail stations, anywhere people have traveled from a distance.
But hey, all that is just coming from some kid who never goes outside unless necessary anyway, so what do I know?
Final point, be praying, don't fear, and be open to what God has for this time.
God bless!
Cheering you on,
Malaki S.
P.S. Also, a little fun fact, wearing a mask will NOT protect you from the Carona virus. Sorry!
