Read Romans 8:5-11.
For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. To set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. (Romans 8:5-6)
27,610. No wait, now it's 27,677. That’s the latest number of deaths attributed to Covid-19. 607,239 confirmed cases. Actual numbers are probably much higher.
In a pandemic, how can I set my mind on the things of the Spirit? Where is the peace that Jesus gives? Is it really possible to control my thoughts when there is disruption and anxiety in the air? According to Paul, having the mind set on Spirit vs. flesh is a matter of life and death.
Life and death. To set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. But I am drawn like a fly to shit to get the latest updates. I start out the day intending to work and pray all day, like normal, without reading news or checking numbers. If I get through half the day, or even an hour, I feel I’m doing well. (28,231.)
What would it take to "set [my] mind on the things of the Spirit”?
- Faith. I trust that God is in control.
- Dispassion. Anxiety, curiosity, fear may knock at the door, but they have no control over me.
- Surrender. Since I trust God, I can give myself, my loved ones, and the world to his care.
- Obedience. I will try to follow the leading of the Spirit at every moment, including turning from thoughts that are not helpful.
- Adoration. I marvel at the way the wrath of God and the love of God are two different perspectives on the same actions, that a pandemic may bring about good at the same time it sickens and kills.
- Life and peace. It's a gift. What a gift.
If the spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will give life to your mortal bodies also through his Spirit that dwells in you. (Romans 8:11)
