Trust

Trust.

Noah did everything God said. He built the ark and filled it as instructed. Once inside, God closed the door so nobody else could get in.

Pestilence sweeps across the world, heedless of borders. Borders which are being closed, one after another, leaving refugees without help or hope on the other side. Trapped, with no way in or out.

Across many nations, we have been instructed to self-isolate, so we have gathered our loved ones inside our homes, as instructed by government. Some have pulled up their drawbridges, refusing entry to all those caught outside as the rains come down and the waters rise. Focused on maintaining physical health at all costs, mental and spiritual health are imperilled. We are social beings. We were made to be community, and that means we sometimes take risks to bring others into safety.

Common sense designed the policy. It’s a good one. But God has not closed the door to our homes as he did to the ark. When there are people in need who have no safe haven, he calls us to reach out a hand and bring them in. It is so encouraging during these days to see and read of so many examples of people doing just that.

In these days of turmoil and uncertainty, fear is fed as we hole up and just look after ourselves. Jesus calls us to trust him. To walk on the waters which may roil and rage, our focus on him. To minister to those out in the storm, and to bring them in to the peace which is Jesus.

May we all stay safe as we self-isolate, but also be alert and responsive to the cries for help that reach our ears. Don’t let your hearts be troubled and don’t be afraid, Jesus says. Why? Because he has overcome the world.