Dear Parents,
It seems like every news article I come across is on the topic of the Coronavirus or COVID-19. In our information-saturated society, what is being spread at the most rapid rate is rampant fear. Consider for a moment that stores are almost entirely sold out of cleaning supplies, hand sanitizer, and toilet paper. Many are getting ready to barricade themselves in their homes, while this new plague blows over.
As Christians, how are we to respond? While I certainly don’t consider myself an expert on the topic, I would like to suggest 2 different ways that we can approach this situation that leaves space for Christ to shine through.
Colossians 4:2 says “Devote yourselves to prayer. Be alert and thankful when you pray.” There is certainly wisdom in being alert and prayerfully constructing a plan. As a school, we have taken safety precautions to ensure that students are washing their hands and using hand sanitizer. We have also increased the frequency of cleaning our desks to a daily routine. We also have a comprehensive plan to respond to a pandemic, Coronavirus or other. God does want us to use discernment and be wise when we know that certain actions will be beneficial for our safety. He also tells us to pray…for His protection, His Wisdom, and His strength.
While we make every effort to be prudent, Deuteronomy 31:8 says “It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.” Since we know that the Lord is with us, we should not be living our lives from a place of fear, but rather from a position of peace. While others around us may be panicked at the news they are hearing, we can rely on God and communicate confidence in Him. What a wonderful opportunity we have to be light and act differently than those who do not have the same hope as we do.
As we head off for March break, I pray that God will both protect each one, while filling us with His peace.
Sincerely,
J-D Lussier, Principal
