I came across a gem this morning from Warren King. He shared a chart (see the picture accompanying this article), with the premise “Who do I want to be during COVID-19? Though Warren didn’t make the chart, he shared it on Facebook. In the comments, a point was made that the chart mirrored the process that we go through when grieving. The five famous steps of grief: Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression and Acceptance.
In this chart are listed three ways people are handling the pandemic. Fear, Learning and Growth. The process is seen over and over again in life, and is certainly valid here. I would like to share a few thoughts about what is noted in the chart.
First, the FEAR ZONE. As noted, it includes unreasonable responses, complaining, anger and panicky action. No doubt this typified the initial response of most of us to the COVID-19 virus. It is hard not to fear the unknown. Remember, though, that as Christians we have little reason to be anxious. The equanimity that a mature Christian can demonstrate during danger is awe inspiring. Paul is a good example. In prison, and waiting for judgment at the hand of a capricious Roman emperor, Paul wrote, “Yes, and if I am being poured out as a drink offering on the sacrifice and service of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all. For the same reason you also be glad and rejoice with me” (Philippians 2:17-18). What gave Paul this perspective? He knew that the important thing in this life is preparation for eternity in God’s presence! “We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed — always carrying about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body” (2 Corinthians 4:8-10).
Second, the LEARNING ZONE. This zone includes a reigning in of destructive impulses, educating oneself concerning actual dangers and mitigating actions that can be taken, and the verification of all information. I certainly know much more about the virus than I did a month ago. This knowledge allows me to act without panic. I take precautions, and trust that with care I can protect myself and my family. However, it is amazing how many are caught in the FEAR ZONE, and have not progressed through educating themselves! There is a spiritual analog to this. Those who are lost in sin may panic, or respond without reason. Those with open hearts (seekers of truth) educate themselves. Like the Jews at Pentecost, “Men and brethren, what shall we do?” (Acts 2:37). They then act upon the truth given, “Repent, and let everyone of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins…” (Acts 2:38).
Finally, the GROWTH ZONE. This zone is where mature and clear thinkers have gotten. Rather than being preoccupied with virus, the clear thinker considers how to grow in the moment. Things like helping others, using your skills to benefit society, adapting to the “new normal.” It is interesting in the chart how closely these things mirror the ideal of the mature Christian! James wrote, “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing“ (James 1:2-4).
Too many have not yet left the fear zone! They are anxious, unsettled and unhappy. The mature child of God is not immune to the fear and ignorance that previously unknown trials may bring. But, he quickly proceeds from fear to knowledge to application. He grows as a result of the suffering he experiences. What about you? How are you handling COVID-19?
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