Protecting, Interceding, Helping...
The coronavirus pandemic has many confused as to what to do to protect themselves and their loved ones. It is important to be sure that you are getting accurate information, because their is a lot of bad information out there. Here are trusted sources for up to date information:
The Centers For Disease Control and Prevention Website
New Jersey Department of Health COVID-19 Page
There are suggestions regarding making masks. Some are good, some are not so good. Some are simple. Others are complex. Here are a few links that may be helpful... and, if you can sew, perhaps you could make some for others who need them...
Surgeon General Shows How To Make a No-Sew Face Covering
CNN: How to make your own face mask.
CBS New York: Coronavirus Tip: How To Make A Mask With Just A Bandana, Hair Ties And Essential Oils.
Happy DIY Home - 5 types of "Do-It-Yourself" face masks
There are many people who are in need of special prayer. Remember those who are sick, those who are mourning the dead, those who are on the "front line" fighting the virus and trying to keep people safe, informed, and supplied with the necessities. Remember those who are still working under stressful conditions and those who are afraid and confused.
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God" Philippians 4:6
"...pray for one another so that you may be healed. The effective prayer of a righteous person can accomplish much" James 5:16
Click Here for a helpful article from Christianity Today, "20 Prayers to Pray During This Pandemic"
The grace of Christ causes Christians to be compassionate and to live our the love of our Lord and Savior. Here are a few ways to help by supporting the efforts of worthy charities that are helping in the battle against this pandemic and its effects...
... Also, we can provide support to one another. Contact neighbors, especially those who may be alone or elderly or handicapped. Encourage them and pray with them. See if there is anything they need that you may help provide (without putting yourself at risk). Spend time online with students and children who may be confused or afraid and in need of reassurance and guidance. Slide a written word of blessing and encouragement under a neighbor's door. Sister Norwood and I just put together small care packages with candy, treats, a devotional booklet ("Our Daily Bread"), a palm cross, and a roll of toilet paper with a simple note of care for each of our neighbors. We left it at their doors and stepped back after knocking so that we obeyed the "social distancing" rule. It was an encouraging witness that brought smiles to their faces. I am sure that if you prayerfully consider what you can do, the Lord will put something on your heart.
Share the link to the church website and encourage people to participate in our on-line worship and conference call studies. There may be those who would not come to church before that may get saved because they will take advantage of what is provided virtually.
2 Corinthians 1:3-5 (ESV); 3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. 5 For as we share abundantly in Christ's sufferings, so through Christ we share abundantly in comfort too.