It’s hard not to be anxious with everything going on. Either that or apathetic. The Coronavirus is real and impacting many but we don’t need to fear nor should we ignore the situation. Yes it is inconvenient. Yes technically my family of four will probably be okay if it makes it’s way to us. But it isn’t just about us. Over and over in scripture we are told not to worry – we can find rest in God our hope. We know this world is not our home. But that doesn’t mean we live recklessly. We can be wise. We can be loving. We can turn our focus away from ourselves because our hope is in Christ. Instead of panicking or complaining or ignoring we can ask “how can I help?”
HOW CAN YOU HELP?
- Deliver meals/ groceries to those who are quarantined whether for sickness or safety to show them you care and help take care of them in this season. Many churches and communities are making lists of those who are stuck at home so reach out to one of those if you don’t already know anyone.
- Offer to watch kids. Lots of schools are canceling and many parents will need help with childcare.
- Give to your local food banks. At this time, money is better than your extra canned items as they can most efficiently purchase exactly what is needed. Many families cannot afford to prep the same as others. Also many kids who get lunches provided at school will need to eat still with schools out of session. Food banks will help meet that need!
- Isolation is hard. Call someone who is alone to let them know you care/ just chat with them. Call your grandma, check in with your neighbors, text your friends. Make community still happen. Good old snail mail is another way to entertain yourself at home and help comfort others.
- Continue gathering in small groups. Avoid hugging / touching while you hang out. Clean surfaces before and after and have everyone wash their hands upon arrival. Make sure everyone attending is healthy and hasn’t been exposed to the Coronavirus to their knowledge.
- Take care of your family by having enjoy food /supplies for about 2 weeks (not 6 months!) I just ordered our groceries online and the soonest pickup was a day away just so that you know they may be backed up a bit. Be respectful and only get enough diapers/ toilet paper you need so other families can get what they need as well.
- STAY HOME IF YOU ARE SICK! Even if you don’t think it is the Coronavirus. There is no reason to risk it. Protect the most vulnerable by staying in.
- Wash your hands. Drink water. Get a good nights sleep. Take care of your body to help it best fight off anything that may come your way.
- Pray for those affected. Pray for family & friends who lost loved ones. Pray for protection, healing, & peace. We have hope, share it with the world.
- Support small & local businesses. We already know this is taking a toll on the economy and it is hitting a lot of people’s personal bank accounts. Support local business by shopping online, ordering food/coffee to go, or taking small, safe trips to support those businesses.
- Know someone out of work and not being compensated for missed time? Pay their electric bill, bring them groceries, take them dinner, pay them to babysit if you still need to work. We can be the hands and feet of Jesus by meeting these practical needs!
It can fill like there is not much we can do because a pandemic is so big and scary but the reality is that even in the midst of the unknown we can be a light and we can be a help! These are only some of the ways you can help. If you open your heart and your eyes to those around you, the Lord will provide you so many opportunities to give of your time and resources!
PS: For more reading, I love this article – Love in the Time of Coronavirus!
Art by Jenny Highsmith
These are lovely tips. Thank you for sharing, at this point the world needs more of what we can do, not just what we can’t.
Yes!! I so agree!