The Covid Road

When our children were small, we took a mini-holiday in a small travel trailer on the United States southern border. Mexico was so close and the opportunity to visit such a beautiful country was too good to pass up so my husband looked for a spot on the side of the road to unhook the trailer before crossing the border. But without signs to warn us, the wide road quickly narrowed into a dead end gravel lane with small children laughingly pointing at these obviously uninformed Americans.

During this current crisis, many recognize they are in a dead-end situation. A chosen path to success has led to an unintended destination. Strict maintenance of good health has proved ineffective. Assured income whether from secure employment or solid investments has either dwindled or evaporated. Now what?

While scientists scramble for a vaccine to prevent deadly Covid-19, no doctor, psychologist, sociologist or well-intentioned expert can offer a life without peril. One story compares human efforts of self- protection to building a house on sand. When storms come, when plague threatens, houses—and lives—need solid foundations.

If we had invited a knowledgeable guide to ride along with us, our excursion into Mexico would have been without a dead end. But who can we trust during this current crisis—and the many that will follow? Who is a guide with power, knowledge and love? Who offers not a panacea but presence?

To a people who faced plague and peril, who trembled with fear as they contemplated unseen enemies, God said:

Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread…for it is Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you. (Deuteronomy 31:6)

The road will still be rough and bystanders may even point fingers or mock at the peace that calms your soul, but God’s promise is sure. You can walk the Covid road knowing the peace that is absolutely beyond understanding. It’s God’s sure promise.

By Marilyn Ehle
Used by Permission