For the previous two months, our culture has become very adept at using key words and phrases. These are key words that most of us probably have known but have now been brought to the forefront of our attention because of this pandemic (Yes! That's one of those terms). Terms such as quarantine, droplets, asymptomatic, and other such expressions have become a regular part of our vocabulary now. These words are found in news articles, social media posts, conversations and every part of society where COVID-19 is discussed. But what struck me is how many of these terms seem strangely parallel to the Christian life.
The one similar condition in the Bible that many can relate this virus to would be the disease of leprosy. Now, I completely understand that the corona virus is an infectious disease and Biblical leprosy was a skin disease and the two are different, but there are things that are analogous. What is similar is the fact that both are diseases and both are to be treated as something dangerous and harmful to a person. Another point of similarity happens to be in how they illustrate sin and affect the Christian life. Leprosy was a physical picture of what sin does to a person. And as we think about the terms used for the corona virus, let's simply draw a spiritual portrait for us to see clearly how we ought to treat sin and live this Christian life.
Social distancing -- While we have been practicing keeping ourselves away from others so we do not transmit this virus, social distancing ought to be practiced in the life of every Christian. Consider 1 Corinthians 15:33; Proverbs 10:1; 1 Corinthians 5:9-11
Flatten the curve -- This is the idea of using protective practices to slow the rate of the infection. The Christian needs to consider living in such a way that he is clean before God and does not allow his old nature to become dominant in his life. Think of the following Scriptures (Colossians 3:2; Ephesians 4:22-24)
Models -- These are measurements used to predict the behavior of the virus in given situations. While the models for COVID-19 have widely varied, I can assure you that the Christian has one sure guide which will not only show him what is wrong but how to make it right. That is found in the Scriptures (2 Timothy 3:16; Psalm 119:9-11)
Essential -- We have learned in this shutdown what is essential and what is not. Whether it be in the realm of business or government, we once again were reminded of that which is needed and that which could be put aside temporarily. I believe that many have recognized that the meeting together of God's people is essential. We need one another and God has designed us in that way for our spiritual growth to be effective. Remind yourself of the passage in Hebrews 10:24-25.
Pandemic -- This is in reference to the spread of a disease over a large area. In the case of COVID-19 it was global. May I remind you that the sin disease is pandemic. There is no one who is not affected by sin and its consequences (Romans 3:23; 6:23). But praise God there is a cure! Something greater than any vaccine (there's one of those terms again) is the blood of Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ died for the sins of the whole world and rose again victorious over sin and death and He alone is the cure for the sin-sick soul (Romans 5).
In this time of uncertainty, may we as believers once again be reminded of the seriousness of sin and what it does to the soul but rejoice in the fact that we have a grand message to share which heals the awful disease known as sin. Share that glorious message today!