Lock down!

The world appears to be standing on a viral precipice. The sense of panic and paranoia is palpable in just about every country because of nCovid 19. This new and rather deadly virus has brought life to a virtual standstill--sports, schools, festivals--the shut down or lock down is being used by every nation affected by the virus. While Thailand has not yet declared a lock down, it may be just a matter of time. Every school is now preparing for that eventuality, knowing we may have to run schools online. Ironically, these developments have revealed the 'animal' within us in the form of panic buying. A virus which originated in the animal world is making humans resort to some animal-like behaviour (the survival instinct is overriding common sense). Something we did not even know existed just four months ago has now become our obsession. An even more ironic aspect of the nCovid 19 dilemma is that viruses are non-discriminatory; they cross every border, gender, religion and economic wall. Some may be wondering if God is behind all this or at least why he seems silent. There is a concerted effort among some to try and use religious ritual like prayer to force God to act. However, an old text, from another almost extinction-level crisis, reminds us that 'trust in God' will ultimately bring success (2 Chronicles 20:20). This is still our

Father's world and he is still in control. Therefore, 'it is well with my soul' as I hope it is with yours. God bless.