PASTOR'S DESK

The Pastor’s Desk features Answers to Christian Life Questions sent in from the world over.

Read and be blessed in the name of Jesus.

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 BIBLE QUESTIONS ANSWERED by DR. AYODEJI AWE

QUESTION 88- PASTOR, A LOT IS GOING ON CONCERNING COVID-19. WHAT CAN YOU BLESS US WITH REGARDING THIS BIG ISSUE THAT IS ROCKING THE WHOLE WORLD?

 ANSWER-

Yes. A lot is going on and much is happening. Lives are at stake. Nevertheless thanks to God for up-keeping us.

       COVID-19 otherwise known as Coronavirus is a virus disease now classified as pandemic because of its worldwide infection. It originated in China. Currently under intense investigation is whether it came out of a wet market or the institute of virology both in the city of Wuang in China. At its very inception, no one including the President of the US as well as those who later became part of the Task Force helping to stem its spread and deadliness in terms of death knew that it would turn out to be a potent venom that succeeded so far in rocking the earth. From North to South, East to West all over the world the battle against this pandemic is raging.

        For us in the US, thank God that the very moment Pres. Trump heard about it he banned incoming travels from China. Again because no one thought things would turn out lethal, many voiced opinions against the travel ban which later turned out to be a big mitigant against spiraling casualty count. At the least, many sensible observers agreed that the call banning incoming travelers from China saved a lot of lives because in contrast, some parts of Europe that did not react in that manner recorded a comparatively higher number of deaths due to COVID-19.

        Investigation is ongoing as to what many in the world, led by the United States, believe that the Communist Government of China intentionally withheld vital timely information and announcement that would have alerted, or perhaps nudged them to react early and more seriously to the strike of the virus, thus minimizing its impact and spread. Nevertheless, no one balks with the fact that the pandemic has to be dealt with and stymied. Worldwide virus attack that had happened in the past required that vaccine be invented to combat. Developing vaccine takes time because it has to pass a lot of scientific and clinical screening and testing to ensure that it is safe for humans. Because of the intense attention and the urgency of intervention, funds were poured into the project which in turn would reduce the time of production. Even at that, it is being estimated that a vaccine if successfully developed and scaled through the measures may not be ready until the fall of 2021. 

          Which spells the current dilemma of having to find treatment for now as the pandemic does not show mercy on those that are infected. Whatever works momentarily the government pours money or evokes War Declaration Act to procure. The number one priority is to save lives. In spite of that and though the scientific models being used to forecast mortality rate miserably failed (thank God), the death count in the world is still in thousands. How sad!

         The lasting solution to curbing COVID-19 in America would require one of two possible paths. The first path, which is developing a vaccine, requires that testing be done in a continuing fashion to minimize the spread of the disease. Apart from the extended time required to fully pass it, the Scientists directing the affairs on this matter intimated us with another downside that testing may have to be continuous because being negative in testing today does not guarantee that tomorrow you may not, because at anytime you may get into contact with someone who is carrying the infection. In this respect, the ‘infamous’ social distancing that is already being implemented to a varying degree becomes handy. The stricter the more efficacious it would seem.

  The second path is what is referred to as herd immunization. It is the methodology where the populace is left to be exposed en mass to the virus to the extent that antibody immunity is developed preventing them from getting sick. Those who pass this test would not have to worry continuing because they are deemed to be immune continuing. But there appears to be two flags of caution. First, it is risky because there is the possibility of a higher number of death from location to location especially if many could not muster the antibody resistance. Second, there is a new insinuation that appears to suggest indefinite antibody immunity is scientifically unproven. According to Dr. Anthony Fauci (an infectious disease expert, member of Presidential Task force on Coronavirus headed by Dr. Deborah Faux), “we still have a long way to go in this respect", especially for coronavirus because it is new. Obviously! However if it succeeds, it leads to more health stability.

        If there is one thing that is undeniable after taking a good look and assessment of our coerced excursion with COVID-19 so far, it is that there are many things we don’t know and many answers that are elusive. Even from Dr. Tony Fauci and Dr. Deborah Faux (the Pres. Task Force Director), one phrase that is apt to be uttered is "we don’t know", following many questions that are being thrown at them at the presidential briefings or when being interviewed. No doubt, this virus new as it is has thrown the world into a new territory of cluelessness. 

          This is where we don’t have any further choice but to turn to our God. For in the time of uncertainties our recourse is God. Please note that by the time you are reading this piece some of the things you are reading or situations being referenced may have changed in some forms because things are unfolding daily as we speak or write. The only thing that doesn't change is God - "I am the Lord, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed" (Mal. 3:6). It is hereby clearly postulated that we are safe because the power of God to shield us and his mercy and love displayed toward us are availing. Therein lays our biggest confidence and hope.

 As of today while writing this piece, the nation is on lockdown. The President has offered 3-phase advisories that the governors could employ to relax the national shutdown. The national economy is going through intense distress as the government is doing all it can to keep it afloat. Many people are out of work.  Some are sick. Others have lost loved ones. Our prayers and words of comfort go to all who are under the ailment or are bereaved. Churches have temporarily closed fellowship. Those that are able transmit services to members and all that can tune in at home or wherever they are able to link the live stream/Face book live. We in Texas like many around the nation eagerly anticipate return to life of normalcy as we used to have it. Contrary to nay Sayers, I firmly believe in our God who is able to restore and replenish the years (time and resources) that the locusts (Coronavirus, in this case) have eaten….. (Joel 2:25-32).

  Know for sure that God is faithful. He has not lost track of the on goings. He is still in charge. Especially to all who belong to him, he is our father. In the midst of this imbroglio, God reminds us that his plans for us have not changed. That wonderful plan to bless us, give us hope and ensure for us an expected end still stands (Jer. 29:11). He is the Lord who heals us when we are sick (Exo. 15:26). He is the father of comfort for all who may be mourning or going through intense hardship (2Cor.1:3). He is the provider for all who lack (Phil 4:19; Psa 23:1). He is our refuge and strength and an ever- present help…(Psa. 46:1). No matter what goes on, he stands by the fact (v.2).

 Let me share with you in closing one of the assurances that I have for you- At the other side of COVID-19 when it is all over, your health will be stronger and like a legion of ants that experienced disturbance by the landlord, sometime after, as they are back all lined up beautifully racing along, so would your destiny be on track to achieve all that God intended for you.

To God be all the praise, now and always!

 For questions pertaining to any part of your Christian life, prayer or counseling or opportunity to fellowship, feel free to contact us at:

BQA @ Our Savior’s Church,

77070 W. Orem Dr., Houston Tx 77085

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