Do Not Be Afraid!

The coronavirus lockdown is stirring up anxiety, confusion, and major inconveniences. It is a situation in which we can easily overreact or underreact. How can our faith tradition guide and comfort us through this troubling time?

 

A good starting point is to remember that the most repeated phrase in Scripture is “Do not be afraid!” or “Have no fear!”

 

God probably sends us this message so frequently because fear is such a big part of human nature. Fear can alert us to dangers in our lives to keep us safe, but fear can also lead us astray, toward selfish responses.

 

Living the Virtues

Ultimately, as with life in general, we are called to live out the four cardinal virtues:

PRUDENCE Carefully discern the best course of action, not just for ourselves, but for the good of all. Ask: What action does God want me to take?

 

JUSTICE Seek fairness for everyone, especially those who need it most. Ask: Who is not getting the help that they need?

 

TEMPERANCE Find a healthy balance between self care and care for others. Ask: Do I err toward selfishness or can I reach out to demonstrate care for others?

 

FORTITUDE Persevere in times of trial and difficulty. Ask: Do I have the courage to do the right thing even when the going gets tough?

 

What You Can Do

Stop the spread.

  • Wash your hands well for at least 20 seconds with soap and water. (Say the words of the Trinity Blessing - “In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, Amen.”) while you wash
  • Avoid touching your face.
  • Cough or sneeze into your elbow or a tissue.
  • Follow the guidance of local officials.
  • Stay home if you become ill.

Don’t take what you don’t need.

  • Hoarding worsens the situation, and can lead to more infections and more impacts for the most vulnerable.
  • Do not overbuy supplies. Retailers are being wiped out of disinfectants and other supplies, leaving some who most need them without. Be prepared, but be thoughtful and reasonable.

Advocate for the vulnerable and targeted.

  • Have compassion for those most at risk. Stand up for those who need the most help and make sure they are being cared for, without judgment.

Proactively love your neighbour!

  • Check in on isolated or vulnerable neighbours and offer to help with specific tasks such as shopping, child or pet care, cleaning, etc.
  • Thank those on the front lines who are protecting us, such as health care workers, police, firefighters. Be gentle and kind with them.

Christine Savage | Leader of Mission