“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” (Jn 14:27).

When I first learned of the coronavirus (COVID-19), it was in China, and then Iran and Italy. It was far away from me and my family. Even when reports of confirmed cases emerged here in the U. S., they were in states thousands of miles from me. But reality set in when the NBA canceled their entire season in my state, in my city. I realized the disease was much closer and more widespread than I wanted to acknowledge.

As the spread of coronavirus becomes more prevalent every day, health officials are asking us to stay away from large gatherings of people. Almost everything has shut down, from schools to stores to movie theaters, and the few things that remain open are operating with limited hours. In this unprecedented situation, we are all spending more time at home than usual.

In any crisis, it’s easy to focus on the negative outcomes and the what-ifs. Twenty-four-hour news cycles bring us constant news of the virus: how many cases have been confirmed, how many people have died, how many people have been tested. It’s overwhelming.

But in all this chaos, a ray of hope has emerged. Churches and other organizations have engaged young, healthy volunteers to shop for older folks and those with compromised immune systems. People are reaching out to show compassion to their neighbors (Luke 10:25-37).

The reality is that this situation is deadly serious. Jesus showed compassion to the sick and hurting, and as Christians, we should do the same. If you’re healthy, consider delivering food to someone and leaving it at the door. If you’re financially able, make a monetary donation to your church or the charity of your choice to help others provide delivery services.

Check on your family members and friends. Call, text, FaceTime, or Skype with friends. In this era of technology, we have access to any number of apps and programs that allow us to stay in touch virtually. Loneliness is already an epidemic in this country; don’t let this virus keep you from staying in contact with those you love.

The coronavirus has created a new normal in our world―one we hope is temporary. As we are pushed out of our comfort zones in a myriad of ways over the next few weeks, remember that this situation did not surprise God. He is in control, and when we rely on him, he will equip us with the knowledge and wisdom to help others.

Dear Jesus, you know the crisis facing us now. Please bring healing to those with the coronavirus, comfort to those who have lost loved ones, and protection to those who are fighting this battle on the front lines. Show us how to show compassion and share your love with each. Amen.