This is my comfort in my distress, that your promise gives me life. -Psalm 119:50
Dear members and friends,
Our lives have become quite challenging with the illness called Covid-19. There are many stories and much information bombarding us everywhere we turn. At times it seems that there is too much information – beyond what our brains can process – and we feel helpless. Yet, when we sit down and reflect on what each of us can actually do about all this information, the matter is not that complex. The first thing to do is to keep our own self safe and healthy. This is the time to truly implement all those health-related practices that we have been taught since we were small children: wash your hands thoroughly and keep them clean, drink plenty of water, exercise regularly, get enough sleep, etc. The second doable thing is to be mindful of the health of others by being conscious of where we are and who is around us. Simple practices we should implement include covering our mouth when sneezing or coughing, staying home when sick, and being mindful of social distancing. The third doable thing is to be prayerful and stay calm. It is well known that stress causes many health problems. Constantly thinking and talking about matters and issues that are beyond one’s power is not only unhelpful, but stress-inducing.
Distress is one of the words used in Psalms to describe how they felt in times of trouble. The word distress is defined as “extreme anxiety, sorrow, or pain.” Right now, we can definitely relate to this feeling! Yet, at the same time, the psalmist did not stop after stating that life is in distress, but went on to say that “your promise gives me life.” As people of faith, we should reflect on what it is that we truly need to be fearful of. As Jesus teaches in Matthew, “Do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul (10:28).” Our ultimate concern should not be the health of the body, but of the soul. Let us have trust in the Lord who is unchanging love and wisdom; let us stay calm and do our best to find and nurture life that continues all around us.
Blessings, Rev. Junchol Lee