Are You Stocking Up?

     I was AMAZED when I stopped at the store today after church. The empty shelves were shocking to me. No meat, eggs, frozen veggies, bread and the list goes on. We were there for a corned beef brisket, cabbage and some Brussel sprouts. Just usual stuff. Living in N. Idaho has trained us to live in a prepared state in the event of a power outage during the winter months so in the event we really were to have a crisis, we would be prepared. Between the COVID 19 panic, the current study of 1st Corinthians in BSF and the series at church the last few weeks, I started considering what makes me feel secure.
     Knowing that my pantry is stocked with reserves, having wood for the winter to keep the fire going, having the security of a husband who will protect me and a good job that helps to pay the bills all add up to security. These things bring me comfort. What if all of it were lost? How secure would I feel then? An aqauintance of mine lost all that she had in a house fire 3 weeks ago. The house burned to the ground and she and her husband got out with the clothes in their backs. Every time I put on makeup, or go to the fridge for a snack or look at a picture on the wall, I think about the things that I take for granted, daily. True, she will have a home and belongings again but in an instant, she lost 30 years of precious memories.
     The panic over COVID 19 has closed schools in our area and therefore may limit the staff I have to fill positions at work. As well, the threat may cause clients to postpone scheduling appointments. Will I have a job in 4 weeks from now? Most likely I will. But, the thought of these things has me looking to Jesus for the eternal comfort only He can provide. The concerns on this earth, even when overwhelming, are completely in God's control and under His power. Because I am His child, even when I die I will be raised again in a glorified body to live eternally in heaven with Jesus. WOW!! The reality of that has a new perspective for me.
     One thing that has most importantly been highlighted in this current world situation is the obvious fear or anxiety that people are feeling. Do they know the comfort of Jesus? I would suspect not. Maybe they do when things are good, but now they have allowed the fear to override their trust in the Lord. Either way, isn't it my responsibility to offer comfort where I can by sharing the truth of the Gospel? Stocking up on food and household supplies may not be a bad idea in general, for the potential of any catastrophy, but stocking up on the Word of Jesus is the only true security that we can experience. If you are worrisome, will you stock up on Jesus today? And if you are calm amidst the confusion, maybe you know someone who could use some of your Jesus "reserves".