Faith in a Time of Pandemic – In the Valley of the Shadow

LIV
IN THE VALLEY OF THE SHADOW OF DEATH
(5/9)

Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil, for you are with me…(Psalm 23:4)
Psalm 23 is not for the faint-hearted. The Psalmist describes a dark valley, with threats all around.

In ancient times, these threats might have been wolves or wild dogs. Denying their existence would lead to destruction of the flock. It might have robbers or enemy troops. Crying peace with enemies all around would also be a recipe for disaster.

Today, we don’t usually worry about wolves or coyotes harassing us and our neighborhoods are, for the most part, safe. But we do worry about the Coronavirus, economic meltdown, getting groceries, and the status of our retirement accounts. We may worry about job security. We worry about friends and family in nursing homes. These are the dark valleys of our lives.

These days, the traditional translation, “valley of the shadow of death” may be more realistic. Even though virtually everyone infected by the Coronavirus will survive, those of us with risk factors are concerned because we know that our odds of mortality are much higher for us. To deny that threat, whether in terms of reopening the church or economy, is to risk our own and others’ lives. We need to trust the scientists and not the moguls and political spin doctors.

Still, the Psalm reminds us that we don’t need to be “afraid of being afraid,” because God is with us. In the valley of the shadow of death, we have a companion, a Good Shepherd, whose presence is trustworthy. The Good Shepherd will bring us home safely!

Eventually, we will all travel through the dark valley. We will face problems as persons, churches, communities, and as a nation that may be beyond our abilities to solve, or to solve quickly. In such moments, God says “you are not alone. I am with you in the dark valley. Trust me and I will bring you home!”
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In the darkest valley, you are with me. I will not be afraid for my life is in your hands, and you will protect me. I am safe in your loving care. Thank you, Loving Shepherd. Amen.