The other day I had some work done on
my car.
There was a great deal of work needed
and I knew repairs would take the entire day.
Knowing this, I brought along both a
book to read and a notebook in which I could write.
I am glad that I did.
There was a television in their waiting
area but it was tuned into one of those 24 hour news channels.
The last thing I wanted was to be
exposed to bad news all day long.
I found a seat in the lobby and
alternated between reading and writing.
Although
I could see the television from my seat I was far
enough away that I could not hear it.
Every time I glanced at the television,
I could tell from the graphics that the news anchors were talking
about Ebola.
When I no longer felt like reading or
writing, I gathered my things and went for a walk.
It was a beautiful day.
The sun was shining.
The birds were singing.
I almost hated to go back inside.
Eventually, I made my way back inside
and glanced at the television before opening my book again.
Just as I had
suspected, two different news anchors had come into the studio and
were talking about the same thing.
I gladly returned to my book.
I certainly do not wish to minimize the severity or the risk of
contracting Ebola.
I will certainly not deny that the first person to die of it in my
country did so mere hours away.
As I glanced today's headlines, it became easy to see that the levels
of fear and anxiety are continuing to rise.
This is most unfortunate.
That is why I am so glad to be a Christian.
Compassion and reason should never allow fear and anxiety to get the
upper hand.
As time goes by we will learn more and better understand how this
disease is transmitted.
As we do, we must take all necessary precautions in the treatment of
its victims.
In the time that Jesus walked the earth a different disease brought
about fear and anxiety.
That disease was leprosy.
Victims of this disease were greatly feared and treated as outcasts.
Jesus showed them love and compassion.
Jesus healed with a word or a touch.
Although it is not within our capacity to heal in this way, we can
follow His example.
We must never allow fear and anxiety to push aside our love and
compassion for those in need.
Psalm 23:4 (NET) – Even when I
must walk through the darkest valley, I fear no danger, for You are
with me; Your rod and Your staff reassure me.
Blessings,
Jim Pokorny
The Other Brother Jim
