I want to reflect on the 21 days lockdown declared by our Prime Minister here in India. I believe the world is familiar with the term ’21 days’.
Soft skill training emphasizes that it takes 21 days to form a habit or break it. However, The Bible does not project 21 as a miracle mantra.
In the Old Testament (Daniel chapter 10), Daniel fasted and prayed for 21 days to seek understanding and a vision for Israel’s future. Things were not pleasant during Daniel’s times and he was growing anxious over his people’s fate since many still lived in sin. Daniel brought upon this fast and mourning period on himself. He was determined to seek Godly revelation on What Next. He clearly did not want to rely on the world system of forecasting the future of Israel.
Daniel’s prayers were answered at the end of the 21 days. He was shown a vision and given an understanding of what lay ahead for Israel. No amount of historic data of the past epidemics forecasted that COVID-19 was coming. It has humbled every human being on this earth. It has brought out the worst in us and also the good out of us. I have known of people who are helping elderly citizens get their groceries and have their daily essentials met.
Currently, the world is confined in their homes. For many including me, news over social media is a way to figure out how things would look in the coming days. But that’s when I got reminded by God that it is He who holds the future. He is a God who does not plan to harm mankind. He is a God who is still in complete control of today’s situation. Jeremiah 29:11-13 New International Version (NIV) 11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. 12 Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. 13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.
On March 28, 2020 – 5th day of lockdown, I want to describe what my husband noticed when he stepped out to get essential veggies and fruits for our household.
Local markets were functional. People were observing the ‘1 meter’ social distancing rule. There were some essentials out of stock.
e.g. Salt, Egg, Antiseptics etc.
But nevertheless, we can still survive with whatever we have.
Cos’ God provides what is necessary. COVID-19 is teaching us
Hygiene
Practice minimalism
Spend less money
Spend more time with family
Care about others
Take time to pray for yourself and others
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