Fear has a contagious power like Miasma.
I first read about Miasma in the book
The Ghost Map; The Story of London's Most Terrifying Epidemic - and how it Changed Science, Cities, and the Modern World. We are easily made afraid of things we don't understand. John Snow was courageous in following his conviction of how to halt the cholera outbreak. He was bound to find a way to prove his theory and by taking off the water-pump handle he made history.
As a person who believes in the supernatural power of Jesus Christ, I am aware of how science while rational, is also taken on faith. Miasma was a working scientific theory until it was discredited.
COVID-19 is a modern-day example of something that is terrifying because we are figuring it out together. We will need courageous leaders who work hard to fight prejudices towards neighbors just as Dr. Snow had to convince folks that slums were not the
cause of the disease. Today we know that slums are a symptom of our own greed and fear of neighbors. Slums are the built environmental manifestation of social distancing.
As a person of hope, I have to work hard to keep my heart open towards my neighbors when society is practicing social distancing. We have seen that social distancing is a privilege that many can't afford. I am aware of my own impulse to be selective in allowing who my family comes in contact with. I have to choose courage over fear.
As we move into a new phase of Corona pandemic let's remember that love finds a way forward. I am struck by the prophetic meaning of the name Isaiah. His name means "God to the Rescue."
Isaiah wrote 41:10
So do not fear, for I am with you;
do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Maybe we are being called to be part of the rescue operation by loving our neighbors even when it feels scary.
