A prayer for peace: a response to the Coronavirus pandemic.

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” – John 14:27
We’re standing in the middle of troubled times. The Coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, affected people from every continent and every walk of life. The young, the old, and every in-between is at risk has been affected in some way by the disease itself or by lockdown and social distancing policies brought in to attempt to slow the spread.

It’s easy to panic and be afraid. Maybe you find yourself tempted to hoard supplies, anxiously watching the news, or fretting over all the horrible things that could happen to you and your loved ones.

These are natural and normal human reactions to chaotic moments. But just because panic is a tempting reaction doesn’t make it your only choice. There’s another option that you may be tempted to overlook—peace. Peace is something God can give us even in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. Even when we fear losing our jobs. Even when we worry about feeding our families.

How Can We Find Peace in Moments Like These?

It starts with turning your eyes to the throne of God. “God reigns over the nations; God is seated on his holy throne.” (Psalm 47:8)

Just as these words were true over 2,000 years ago, they’re still true today. God is still on the throne. He still reigns. Pause to meditate on that truth for just a moment. Despite the chaos, pain, and heartbreak we are encountering in the world today, God maintains absolute control.

Where Is God Right Now?

Jesus says “Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father's care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” (Matthew 10:29 )

You are precious to God. He knit your cells together (Psalm 139:13). He chose the colour of your eyes and picked the type of pair you’d have. He painted on your freckles and rejoiced to give you that “birth mark” on your back. He loves your heart and delights in the sound of your laughter.

In the middle of chaos, it’s easy to forget these facts. It’s tempting to believe that God is distant, but he’s never been closer to you. He loves you, and he loves those you love.

Does God Care about the COVID-19?

“When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them and healed their sick.” (Matthew 14:14)

One of the hallmarks of Jesus' ministry was His healing power over every disease and disability. Some people were cured of illness by simply touching the hem of His garment.

The same Jesus who had compassion on the sick and frail thousands of years ago still has compassion for those who suffer. He still cares deeply about every cold, flu, and virus we encounter.

Let’s Pray Together…

God, today we rejoice in the fact that you are king over all the world. We choose to remember that although you do not send a virus, flu, or illness - nevertheless you alone hold the power of life and death.

We pray for those who have been affected and will be affected by COVID-19 and the lockdown measures. We ask for complete healing over their bodies and continual peace over their hearts and minds. We ask for speedy recoveries and a return to full-strength.

We pray for those who are working in the medical profession right now. These healers are certainly close to Your heart. Please, protect them from this awful disease. Comfort them as they comfort others. Encourage them in the middle of the battle and remind them that You are near.

Just as You have full control over every virus, Father, we ask you to stop this one through the vaccine and natural immunity. Let no more lives be lost to this deadly disease.

Finally, God, we pray for those who have lost or will lose loved ones to COVID-19. Let us be compassionate, quick to grieve with those who are grieving, sharing their sorrows, and comforting them in their affliction.

Even when the world feels chaotic and scary. Turn our eyes to you in these moments and grant us peace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Pete (The Virtual Vicar)

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