Day 96: Pandemic’s Six Signposts

DAY 96

Faith in the Midst of a Pandemic

A series of daily reflections for people of faith

by Rev. Robert Bayley, Interim Pastor

Patuxent Presbyterian Church, California, Maryland

WEEK FOURTEEN: THURSDAY 18 JUNE 2020

Pandemic’s Six Signposts

“Much debate has ensued over the past couple of months as to God’s role (or lack thereof) in the current pandemic … it is highly unlikely that we as a people will gain absolute confirmation on this topic that we are seeking. … As the pandemic persists, it does appear, though, that general themes are emerging that suggest keys for all of us to finding meaning during this difficult time.” - From a recent article by the same name in a Christian newspaper

The whole world is on this journey through uncharted and unfamiliar territory. Having explicit signposts on any journey can make the difference between peace and panic. Here are the six signposts suggested by the Christian writer of the above article who assumes Christian faith.

1. “Nothing replaces direct human contact. Nothing.
2. “Some aspects of health are uncontrollable; but for those that are, we have a responsibility to take this seriously.
3. “The natural world demands our utmost respect and care. It is one of the greatest resources available, and we should regard it as such.
4. “Most of our lives were moving too fast, and we needed to slow down.
5. “If we continue to bicker, divide and disparage, it will only bury us further.
6. “Life is not an expectation but a gift. Nothing will ensure it, and the only thing more important than learning from it is embracing it.”

In the absence of a literate world, God’s ‘signposts’ for millennia were verbal until reduced to manuscripts centuries later, when God cried out to His people through the prophet Jeremiah: “Set up road posts; put up guideposts. Take note of the highway, the road that you take. Return…” (31:21). It is not a matter of whether or not we have signposts in our lives, for we all do, but rather to what signposts are we looking for direction. Whatever signposts we choose, we will end up where they lead us.

Reflective question: Which of these six signposts speaks to you? Why? Spend some time in prayer regarding it.

Reflective Scripture: Jeremiah 31:21 – “Set up road signs; put up guideposts. Take note of the highway, the road that you take.”   

Reflective hymn:

“Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah” – William Williams (1717-1791)

Open now the crystal fountain, whence the healing stream doth flow;

Let the fire and cloudy pillar lead me all my journey through;

Strong Deliv’rer, strong Deliv’rer, be Thou still my strength and shield,

Be Thou still my strength and shield.