The valleys and values of life
Our current journey is also turbulent and threatening. The coronavirus pandemic targets everyone, young and old, as potential victims for disease and death. In light of the threat, the Lord would have us know that He alone holds the keys of life and death.
An airplane was going through heavy turbulence. The stewardess instructed all the passengers to stay in their seats, fasten their seat belts and keep calm. The turbulence increased; the plane was tossed back and forth; people were screaming and crying, while a boy who was sitting alone remained calm and quiet.
Finally, the plane landed safely. Someone asked the boy how he kept so calm. He replied: “My daddy is the pilot of this flight.”
Our current journey is also turbulent and threatening. The coronavirus pandemic targets everyone, young and old, as potential victims for disease and death. In light of the threat, the Lord would have us know that He alone holds the keys of life and death.
At present, some 213 countries and territories have the coronavirus (COVID-19 strain) with 5,329,480 reported cases and 340,560 deaths. Under this dark shadow, our lives may require social distancing, self-isolation and quarantine.
With the end of the Easter season, we would do well to renew our faith and love in the Good Shepherd who died for our sins and arose for our justification. In Psalm 23, David wrote with confidence: “The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want.”
There are three “valleys” in the Bible which speak to our present dilemma.
1. The first is the valley of death. “… though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil.” The valley of death for us is COVID-19, an unprecedented threat to human life and wellbeing, especially without a proven vaccine. We give thanks to the doctors and medical personnel for serving daily those infected. They put their lives at risk to save others. David wrote: “The snares of death confronted me… I cried out to my God; And my cry came before Him, even to His ears.” So, David responded confidently: “I fear no evil.”
Fear of COVID-19 only weakens our resolve. Confidence in God leads to victory.
So, don’t be afraid, but gladly follow the health rules of social distancing, frequent hand washing, and avoiding close contact for the sake of others and yourself.
2. The second is the valley of tears: “As they pass through the Valley of Weeping.” Weeping comes from failure, defeat, and even death. A tear is a powerful way to touch the hearts of people, but it also reaches the heart of God, too. David said: “A broken and a contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.” When we sow with tears, we reap with joy.
Are you going through the valley of tears? Someday, they will cease, for God has promised to wipe away all our tears and sorrows.
3. The third is the valley of victory.
This valley lies between Jerusalem, where Jesus was crucified and the Mount of Olives where He ascended. This valley is also known as Armageddon. In this valley, Jehoshaphat won a great victory over the strong enemy and gave God the glory.
The valleys of death and tears find their fulfilment in the Lord Jesus who was crucified and resurrected in Jerusalem and ascended into heaven from the Mount of Olives.
He is God’s chosen Son who will end all human suffering and death as God of Victory and Judge of all.
Are you calm and trusting Jesus as your pilot through the turbulences of life? Let me commend His love and grace for you.
“Jesus, Savior, pilot me over life's tempestuous sea;
Unknown waves before me roll, hiding rock and treacherous shoal;
Chart and compass come from Thee: Jesus, Savior, pilot me!”