Years ago, I remember being surprised at how profusely someone thanked me for a long-forgotten, tiny kindness I had offered during her time of grief. Then it dawned on me—the impact was not based on the size of my action but on the depth of her need. When things seem truly dark, even a small light makes a big difference.

In an atmosphere of fear and vulnerability because of COVID-19, we have an unprecedented opportunity to display the goodness of God. But to do that we need to walk in the opposite spirit of what surrounds us.

Genuine peace
Yesterday I spoke with someone who said they sat down with God that morning and decided they would not get up and start their phone calls until they had achieved genuine peace. That is exactly what we need to do if we are going to act according to the nature of God.

Please note that if our peace is merely a shallow layer over fear, it isn’t enough. Fear interferes with faith and faith is the prerequisite for communion with God. On the other hand, if we wait on God and connect until His confidence fills us, then we can carry His presence with us.

Selflessness
Fear leads people to self-interest. It blunts our thinking, makes us inflexible, and we become blind and unfeeling toward others. In contrast, with a heart at rest, we can receive Him and all we need (James 1:5–7). When we connect with God, He pours His love into our hearts (Romans 5:5).

Then, even if we are surrounded by an atmosphere of self-interest, we can walk in the opposite spirit, looking for how we can bless others. (Yes, we need to do that wisely—perhaps this is not the time to stay for tea with an elderly neighbour, but we can call them and pick up something they need.)

In a time when many activities are not available and there is a tendency to feel bored and aimless, we can instead overflow with good deeds in the mission of God.

This crisis is an opportunity to build genuine relationships and sow seeds for the Kingdom that could lead well into the future. If you have ever wanted to make a difference, this is your time to shine. Even a small candle can make a big difference for a lot of people☺