Pastor Inge Whittemore

East Nelson United Methodist

This Coronavirus (Covid19) is affecting many people in many ways. I’ve been praying for my family, church community, those who have the virus, the caregivers and essential people working hard to help us all. Will you join me in prayer each and every day until this virus is gone?

In the book of Daniel we find a faithful, praying man. Daniel didn’t just occasionally lift his eyes to the heavens and mutter a word or two. No, Daniel prayed a lot! He prayed in his room. He prayed when he was in the lion’s den. He prayed for wisdom and guidance. He prayed for the people of Israel and, towards the end of his life, we find he’s been praying for 21 consecutive days because he’s troubled. He prayed for 21 straight days! Then Daniel heard these words, “Do not be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day that you set your mind to gain understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard, and I have come in response to them” (Daniel 10:12 NIV). Have you ever prayed consistently for something, for like 21 days?

In Luke 18:1-7 (The Message) Jesus told them a story showing that it was necessary for them to pray consistently and never quit. He said, “There was once a judge in some city who never gave God a thought and cared nothing for people. A widow in that city kept after him: ‘My rights are being violated. Protect me!’ He never gave her the time of day. But after this went on and on he said to himself, ‘I care nothing what God thinks, even less what people think. But because this widow won’t quit badgering me, I’d better do something and see that she gets justice—otherwise I’m going to end up beaten black-and-blue by her pounding.’ Then the Master said, ‘Do you hear what that judge, corrupt as he is, is saying? So what makes you think God won’t step in and work justice for his chosen people, who continue to cry out for help.’”

I know that it’s easy to despair right now. But please know that our anxiety can be allayed by relying on and trusting in God’s word and promises found in the scriptures. Keep on keeping on! Keep on praying through this time of crisis.

Look at what God says to Daniel: “Your words were heard.”  God hears our prayers! It’s when we “set our minds to gain understanding and to humble ourselves before our God.” We need to continue seeking God and humbly sit at His feet. Nowhere in the Bible does it say that those who seek Him will ever be turned away.

Please do not let the fear of this deadly virus deceive you. God will never, never fail those who seek Him. God will always be at our side. Stay focused on walking in His way, no matter how this virus obstacle presents itself. No matter how discouraged you may be sometimes, continue your journey with Him.

May the Lord of peace Himself give you peace in this time and in all times.  The Lord be with you.