Written by: ANDY
Art by: Tel
COVID-19 has turned our lives upside down for the past weeks. Given the rising number of confirmed cases and death toll, this pandemic disease has caused the world the anxiety of the unknown.
How long will COVID-19 cause crises to the world? How long will we undergo quarantine? Will it be over by April 14? How long will the students stay out of school? How long will the people, especially the front liners, face the danger of this disease? Will the hospitals be filled with the sick and dying? Will my family be one of them? Will it be me?
As the world contracts with uneasiness and concern, this is the time for potentially profound transformation in our lives. The spirit of Lenten Season gives us the ideal time to contemplate and share the faith. Just like how the Lenten season began with Ash Wednesday, COVID-19 has reminded us of the fragility and vulnerability of everything, including ourselves. It humbles us to perceive that life is not about what we achieve, but what we give and share towards others. Sadly, the imposition of ashes loses its essence on us. We needed to be shaken up from our comfort zones to wake up and see the true essence of life - in the presence of COVID-19.
With its focus on prayer, abstinence, repentance, and almsgiving, Lenten season calls us to observe some things that will help us to find peace amidst all this.
The enhanced community quarantine gives us more time to reflect, pray and draw closer to God. We are called to pray for the healing of those people who were infected by this disease and are seriously ill. For the protection of the front liners and their respective families at home. As well as for the discovery of a cure against this pandemic disease, and enlightenment of those in power to find an effective response to the needs of the people. Pray and believe.
Abstaining from unnecessary travels and any social gatherings could help to protect ourselves and other people from the spread of the virus. As we spend more time on social media, abstaining from forwarding fake news or unverified information that could trigger fear to the public might help. Cliché’ as it sounds but “think before you click”.
Lent in time of COVID-19, necessarily connects us to reevaluate and repent from prioritizing the insignificant things in our lives and reflecting on what matters most. This may be the time for spiritual improvement and reconnection with God.
At this time of crisis, we must give back to God through our neighbors, especially those who are losing their jobs, the homeless, those who are trapped in their homes and are hungry, the prisoners, the front liners and those who are susceptible to this disease. For a third world country like ours, being trapped in poverty is the same as being infected with the disease. Those who have extra right now, shouldn’t hoard but share. Be considerate to everyone.
Amidst the frightening path ahead of us, may we rise and find greater clarity in our lives. Like the Lenten season, COVID-19 doesn’t end with suffering, the agony of carrying our own crosses will end like the Resurrection of Jesus in Easter – a new beginning.
Comments