Panic is an overwhelming feeling of fear and anxiety, a sudden mass fear over anticipated events (WordWeb). It is a feeling of being scared and of terror.
The coronavirus, or CoVid-19, has produced mass panic around the world. According to an article in The Atlantic, dated March 11, 2020, Italy had over 10,000 cases of the virus and there were simply too many cases to give each patient adequate care.
Listen to the news and you will hear of the quick spread and overwhelming numbers of people this virus has infected. The word quarantine is not often part of our vocabulary. The closest I remember is when we got the mumps as a kid and a quarantine paper was posted on the front door of our house. This was expected and made complete sense since we were contagious. As the news channels continue to report the cancellation of iconic travel destinations around the world, we are left with wondering how we are to react.
Businesses, schools, churches, sports events, meetings and conferences, and almost every place of large social interactions have been closed. Is this an epidemic that should cause a response? Absolutely. However, how should we respond?
I had not personally felt any real concern and certainly had not felt panic even when I heard reports of lines forming outside stores because people were stocking up on toilet paper, sanitizer, and water. I was at a small chain grocery store last week and questioned the worker at the checkout line about the large sign that stated there was a limit of 2 cases of water per person. Both of us chuckled a bit at what seemed to be an over-reaction.
Yesterday afternoon, I drove to a large warehouse chain because my printer ran out of ink. I was hit with the reality of what panic looks like. I am typically slow to react and often under-react at situations. However, just being in the midst of a sense of urgency as people loaded their carts with canned goods, rice, pasta and every type of cleaner available, I felt my heart begin to beat a bit faster. Out of curiosity, I pushed my cart up and down the aisles. I saw something I had never seen before – bare shelves. It was actually a mental challenge not to begin to feel a sense of panic. I had to continually remind myself there was no reason to join the frenzy. I did purchase a few extra items I thought would be helpful to have just in case of – ‘I don’t know what’.
Each of us absolutely needs to follow the instruction of those in charge. We have authority in place for a reason. So if they say stay home I will. We can all act responsibly to lessen the chance of someone getting ill. Praise God we live in a time of social media where we are able to stay in touch and continue to encourage one another. I am thankful the church I attend will stream their Sunday service online. We can all be there in spirit and still follow the guidelines of our government.
In all of this weird chaos, let us not forget the peace that affords those who have placed their trust in Jesus. There is no need for panic – God is in control. He is not surprised by this outbreak. He has the power to work in the lives of those who practice medicine, to make the best decisions possible for everyone. Whatever befalls us, it is because in God’s perfect wisdom He allows it. We have an incredible opportunity to spread our reason for hope when others may be fearful. Please share with those around you that if they turn to Christ, their panic will turn to peace.
John 14:27 "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives, do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.
