When I went out of the house early this afternoon, I saw that they blocked the road so no cars could enter/exit our area. I walked to Alimall to withdraw money for grocery shopping then I went to SM. I waited in line for almost 2 hours just to get in. Most people were wearing a mask and surgical gloves. I also saw some wearing safety glasses. The guards sprayed alcohol on everybody’s hands before letting them in. However, I noticed that many did not observe social distancing.

I went to the supermarket at 12:45 noon and finished shopping at 6 in the evening. It’s not because I bought a lot of things. (I do not hoard.) I only bought things we will need for the week. I finished at 6 because I was stuck in the long checkout line for 2 hours.

I was tempted to complain while I was outside the supermarket because it was very hot but God reminded me that grumbling is a sin. Instead, I decided to be grateful (1 Thessalonians 5:18) and to count my blessings. I understand the situation. Nobody wants the new setup.

To be honest, I am not panicking because of the nCoV-19. I am not saying this to brag. Yes, I understand the severity of the situation. I understand this could go on for months. This could even be our new normal. This could even get worse. I’m not being a pessimist but I am also considering different possibilities and it’s better to prepare my heart for anything. Despite all these though, I am at peace. It’s not because I am a spiritual giant—I am not. It’s not because I am perfect and I don’t fear Judgment Day. I can only thank God for His gift of salvation.

My heart is at peace not because of anything I’ve done but because of the assurance of God’s reality. God is real and He is in control. I don’t get scared when I read or listen to the news because I know God knows everything that happens in people’s lives.

Today I let an older woman use the price checker first though I got there before her because I was pondering on whether I should get the extra can of evaporated milk or not. My mother asked me to get one for the macaroni soup she promised to make but I thought I could use the extra can for another recipe. Anyway, I smiled at the woman (behind my mask) and she said to me, “Mamamatay na yata tayo.” I replied, “Mag-pray lang po tayo na matapos na ito.” She agreed in kind of a grumbling way then left.

I understand people are afraid. Knowing that there is a virus that kills people in a matter of days is really scary. I would be afraid, too, if I weren’t a Christian. Before coming to Christ, I was super scared of a lot of things—people, the future, death—especially death. However, when I got to know Christ through His Word, I learned about His character and His promises. Knowing that He is real gives me hope and confidence.

Tonight while washing the dishes, I thanked God for preparing me and my family for situations like this. The Bible hides nothing from us. It’s the most genuine book I’ve ever read. God gave us clear warnings and instructions in His Word about everything—including the trials and tribulations the world will face before and after Jesus’ second coming. I was talking to my sister on the phone last week and she said she’s not scared of the corona virus. I’m glad to know she’s not. I’m blessed because I know she knows Jesus already.

2020 is such a surprise for all of us. There was the volcanic eruption in Taal in January, the volcanic eruption in Japan, the Australian bushfire, the war threat between Iran and the U.S., and then the corona virus pandemic. I also heard about the locust swarms in Africa.

At fist I asked God, “Lord, what’s happening?” However, I was reminded that it’s written in His Word that terrible times will come in the last days (2 Timothy 3:1). It’s scary and it can get scarier but God will spare His children from all those. I know there is no stopping the prophecy. However, my prayer is that God will still give us the chance to come to Him. I don’t want my loved ones to die not knowing Jesus Christ personally. I want to see all of my family members in heaven. I wouldn’t be happy to be there without them.

“They will say, ‘Where is this ‘coming’ He promised? Ever since our ancestors died, everything goes on as it has since the beginning of creation.’” – 2 Peter 3:4

“But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise, as some understand slowness. Instead He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” – 2 Peter 3:8-9

God is not a liar. He delivers. He does what He says He will do. When He says He will protect His children, He will protect His children. He can stop the pandemic right now if He wants to. I believe He is allowing it to drag for a reason. He is giving all of us a chance to repent from our sins, recognize Him as the King of kings and Lord of lords, and obey Him.

Even if we die, we do not lose because we will be with Him in heaven for eternity. It’s a win-win for those who believe in Jesus. Whether we stay longer on earth or die early, we have nothing to fear. My prayer is that I remain steadfast and that I finish the race well.