The World Health Organization officially declared the Coronavirus (COVID-19) to be a pandemic. We are frightened with hearing about this every day. The Coronavirus is real and this affects our society, economy, and day-to-day living. Where is God in a world of struggle, pain, and suffering? Does God care?
We meet God in Jesus as the doctor. Where is God? God is with us. God is our ever-present help in time of need. So, we sing a hymn, “
This is our Father’s World, and let us never forget, that though the wrong seems oft so strong, God is the ruler yet.”
Jesus opens up our eyes to see God who works in the midst of our trouble, struggle, pain and suffering.
A man with leprosy came to him and begged him on his knees, “If you are willing, you can make me clean.” In the time of Jesus, the term ‘leprosy’ was used for many skin conditions, some of them highly contagious. There was a great fear of these skin diseases. With this dreaded skin disease, people were experiencing not only their own suffering but also being cut off from their communities. In addition, they were accused of being an example of punishment sent by God.
Jesus was indignant not only because the man with leprosy was considered unloved by God and unworthy of entering into God’s presence, but also because he was prevented from coming to God for help because of the views of the religious system. So, Jesus stretched out his hand and touched him. He had not been touched by another human being since he was diagnosed with his skin disease. People distanced themselves from him in fear. Imagine the comfort and the healing power in that touch of Jesus. Immediately the leprosy left him, and he was made clean. He became who he really was, clean and pure. He was not only healed but also restored to relationship with God, with the community of faith, and with his family and friends.
Where is the church when it hurts? Where is God in a world of struggle, pain, and suffering? God is in Jesus. Jesus asks the sick, “get up, take your mat and go home.” Jesus as the doctor arouses in the situation an awareness of what we can do for ourselves. Let us not give in to terror or panic, but instead live, love, and serve as Christ has called us to. With the help of God, we may be the shining example of hope and courage, a little doctor of Jesus. With Jesus we are all stronger and better equipped to face challenges. That is what Jesus as the doctor does for us.
Reflection:
What paralyzes you, blocks you and inhibits you? Where can’t you accept yourself? We too can have a healing effect on others. Do you radiate healing, or bitterness and depression? Let us watch out today for what radiates from us. We can be a ealing touch by our small behavior such as a warm phone calling today.
Pastor Seok-Hwan
