As we temporarily shut down Church services as well as many other activities throughout our land, there are several things we should keep in mind. First of all, this is not the time to panic. It's the time to "Trust in the Lord with all your heart..." for Solomon goes on to tell us that "in all your ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your paths" (Proverbs 3:5-6). That advice will help us see things from God's perspective. And what is God's perspective?

Here's what I believe: From the Christian view, God is allowing this whole disruptive situation to happen for a reason, and the reason is not for our disaster but for our good. In the last three-plus years, when have you seen both political parties pulling together for any kind of common cause? Our President has put together a team of the best medical minds in the country (and yes, in the world) to do what is necessary to meet our challenges in the most efficient and timely manner possible. Because of the administration's swift and bold actions, thousands if not millions of lives will be saved.

According to the internet, some 50 million lives were lost worldwide to the Spanish flu between January 1918 and December 1920. My father's brother was one of those casualties in 1918. That was the deadliest pandemic in history. Young, old, sick, and otherwise healthy people became infected, and of those, at least 10% died. It could also happen here if proper precautions are not observed. So let's count our blessings that a century later we are now much better prepared.

Here are three things to keep in mind as we continue through these challenging times:

1. Take it as a serious threat to all of us. Abide by the suggestions as outlined by the doctors and leaders in charge.  Good common sense is a basic rule to follow: Keep your hands washed and sanitized, stay away from crowds and close contacts. Use elbow greetings and "air hugs" instead of handshakes and close touching. You know the rest - don't take any foolish chances.

2. You can choose not to worry or be anxious. Throughout the Old Testament as well as the New Testament the admonition not to worry is mentioned 365 times. Jesus Himself said on several occasions, "Peace be with you, My peace I give to you". Yes, you can be at peace throughout this whole ordeal. Keep looking up and be assured, "This too shall pass..." but it probably will take several months (and maybe longer) rather than weeks. But we're on the right track!

3. "Pray without ceasing" (1 Thessalonians 5:17). The Lord's in charge! Be not discouraged, but trust that He will work it all out into a pattern for good (Romans 8:28). Our job is to pray for God's highest will to be done in giving our leaders the courage, stamina, and wisdom to lead us through this crisis. Remember, He's allowing it for a purpose, and He will bring it to a halt when His purpose is completed.

4.  Keep looking up! Be patient. Better days are ahead!