Heavenly Father, we come to you because we know that you alone have the answers to our greatest needs. You are faithful and kind to hear us when we call upon you. When everything else in our world is turned upside down, you remain upright. You are steadfast and sure. You are our Rock when every other foundation is shifting sand.
We are grateful that it seems the earliest predictions of this coronavirus crisis are not bearing out in reality. Even as the numbers continue to climb, what is being reported worldwide remains much lower than the worst-case scenarios. The increase of critically ill patients is not nearly as devastating to the vast majority of our hospitals as some worried. We praise you for protecting lives and preserving health.
At the same time, we still face many concerns and uncertainties. We pray for wisdom and strength for our government authorities. We pray for the recovery of our economy, which has already experienced significant loss. We pray for the ongoing needs of our medical professionals who will continue to face the effects of this virus when many of us are back in our routines.
As we begin to think about the possibility of things returning to normal “soon”, we want to be mindful of what you have taught us during this time. Many of our fears were revealed by this crisis. We now have a much clearer picture of the things in which we place our trust.
Forgive us for spending more time fretting about our future than calling upon you for comfort. Forgive us for looking to the news rather than your Word for guidance. Forgive us for mocking the fears of others while we harbor fears of our own.
We were reminded of the fragile nature of our fallen world. We are not in control. Many of us are far too dependent upon the stability of our income or the state of our physical health. When those areas are threatened, may we find rest in you alone!
Once again, we are filled with gratitude for the forgiveness that can only be found in Jesus Christ. His atoning death on the cross on our behalf has covered every bit of shame we feel over our unfaithful words, thoughts, and actions. When we are faithless, Christ remains faithful (2 Timothy 2:13)!
Thank you for being a patient and tender Father. Thank you for giving us your Son, an Advocate who ever lives to intercede for us (Hebrews 7:25). Thank you for comforting us through the presence of your Spirit.
For your glory, we ask it, in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.