The word “corona” is the Spanish word (from the Latin word) for “crown”. The coronavirus is so-named because under a microscope the virus looks like it is covered with crowns. The one who wears a crown rules. In our godless, sinful world, where so many don’t believe in almighty God, they are allowing themselves to be ruled by the coronavirus, or, rather, by fear of the coronavirus. They fear getting infected. They fear getting sick. They fear dying. They fear life as we know it will end forever.
In addition, many fear the effects the coronavirus will have on the economy, on their jobs, on their very livelihoods. Evidently, hoarding the staples of life somehow alleviates this fear. That’s one thing fear leads to—selfishness. As long as I have what I need, it doesn’t matter if there’s anything left for others.
Why don’t Christians have to get carried away with the overwhelming fear of coronavirus that rules so many? Because we believe in Almighty God. His only-begotten Son, Jesus Christ, is the One who wears the real crown. He is the King of kings and Lord of lords. He is the One who through his death on the cross destroyed the one who held the power of death (that is, the Devil) and freed us who at one time were held in slavery by our fear of death. His mighty resurrection from the dead proclaims him our triumphant King who has shattered the power of death and brought life and immortality to light. Yes, he wears the crown and rules over all things.
That includes the coronavirus. Our King sends hardships in this life and then bends them to serve his purposes. He promises that he is ruling over all things for the good of his people. He is giving us the chance to let our faith in him be evident to everyone around us, letting them know that we have absolute confidence in our King. This morning I went to Kwik Trip to get some bananas. I said to the lady stocking the shelves, “Good morning, how are you?” She said, “I’m doing fine, how are you?” I replied, “I’m great. I am alive and I have a Savior named Jesus.” She smiled and said, “Thank you.” It’s that easy to share your faith. Now is not the time to panic. Now is the time to be still, and know that the LORD our King is God. In this way we can help others be still as well. Remember, our King says, “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10)
Pastor Michael J. Zuberbier, St. Peter’s, FdL
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