Death springs this April

Michigan is facing a dark April. In God’s providence, this place has proven to be a fertile soil for a debilitating and deadly virus. We face springs of disease, death, and uncertainty.

The State of Michigan has as many confirmed cases of COVID-19 and COVID-19-related deaths as many countries, including Canada. [1][2] The governor’s “stay-home order” is surely going to be extended until at least the end of the month. The apex of confirmed cases is anticipated to be in a few weeks while the apex of reported deaths will spill into the future.

Contrary to what politicians promise, we will not be “made whole” by stimulus checks, waived copayments, unemployment assistance, cheap loans, and the rest. I understand the nagging temptation to gloss over the sadness and the threat, but we are better off being honest with ourselves and with each other. The virus, and its aftershocks, will cause hardship for many. O death, we see thy sting.

Please turn to family, to church members, to friends, and to neighbors to offer support and to seek aid. There is much to be gained by mutual reliance. The government, especially the federal government, should not be the support of first resort. Like sand through dry fingers, government checks slip away quickly when there is no sense of cost or connection.

I pray that you and I will be spared from the worst of it. The darkness is real, and it is here. As one man said, “fondly do we hope, fervently do we pray, that this mighty scourge may speedily pass away.”