Christianity has known plagues, pestilence and panics through history, yet as a people we have been shown sacrificial love by the Lord

We have a wonderful caring community in Northern Ireland, but it is okay to admit that many have troubled hearts and are fearful for the days ahead.

We rightly listen to politicians and health worker’s instructions but there is vital message of peace to be heard from the Lord Jesus in John 14:27 — ‘Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.’

You may well have your eyes firmly fixed on the here and now, but Christ can bring peace abundantly in the midst of panic, he gifts an eternal peace through his cross that will never been taken away from those who trust in him. His is a lasting security through this world and the next.

Christianity has known plagues, pestilence, pandemics and panics throughout its history.

Yet as we, a people, have been shown sacrificial love by the Lord Jesus so we should seek to serve and care for others sacrificially, both in our churches and to our neighbours whether or not they are Christians.

Let us all, rise to the local threat of transmission, with local obedience to those who are in authority over us in government and public health and local displays of love street by street, neighbour by neighbour to ensure no one is forgotten or neglected.

Across generations, let us not begin to view each other with suspicion and fear but growing compassion and love throughout these stages of response.

As we offer to God our thanksgivings and call upon him in the day of trouble may He deliver us through the valley of the shadow of death through trusting in the saving work of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Rev Ben Preston, Craigy Hill Presbyterian