Part of human nature is to worry. The pandemic brought by COVID-19 has brought a lot of problems – economically, politically, socially, and spiritually. Some are suffering from depression, some are struggling with fears, and generally, all of us are worried at some point.
We worry because of the unknown. Most of us have already plotted our calendars on what we will do, what event we will attend and when will we have our vacation. All these came to an abrupt halt when the pandemic came.
But if you really think deeper, all of us can actually say that we do not know what will happen tomorrow, next week or even a few seconds from now. We thought we know what will happen next. But no, we do not. We do our routines but it is not the same in knowing what will really happen next.
Going back to more or less 2,000 years ago, Paul wrote to the Christians in Philippi. We can truly appreciate Paul’s words when we realize that he wrote it while he was imprisoned, and he was expecting an impending death.
So for all of us who are experiencing lockdowns, quarantines, infections, loss of jobs, death of loved ones, depression and anxiety caused by COVID-19, here are the words of Paul,
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7)
Sincerely,
Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on
Director, Office of Communications
Central Philippine University