God created us social beings. Right at the start He proclaimed “It is not good that man should be alone” (Genesis 2:18). For those of us living in the end times, God challenges us to “consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching” (Hebrews 10:24–25). God created us to be with others.
In other words, we were not made for “social distancing.” Yet here we find ourselves, confined to our homes, physically distanced from all those who do not live within the walls of our residences. How should we respond as Seventh-day Adventist Christians?
Be sensible but not fearful. The daily rise in COVID-19 cases and related deaths is unsettling, and we must take sensible actions to protect ourselves and others (visit www.michigan.gov/coronavirus for practical recommendations). We can “live sensibly, righteously, and godly in the present age” (Titus 2:12) by following the advice of public health officials. As we take appropriate precautions, we need not be fearful. After all, Jesus promises: “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (John 14:27).
Stay Home. Stay Safe. Save Lives. Love compels us to do all in our power to arrest the spread of COVID-19. Right now that means staying home except to engage in activities necessary to sustain or protect life. We have a Christian duty to “be subject to the governing authorities” (Romans 13:1) inasmuch as our allegiance to God allows, and we model fidelity to God as we cooperate with our communities and government.
While physically distanced, stay genuinely connected—both socially and spiritually. Your friends may like your post on Facebook or retweet your clever 140-character message, but do not confuse this with true social interaction. Genuine social and spiritual connection happens through directed communication—a message intended for one person rather than every person. During this time of “social distancing,” we must intentionally stay connected with friends, family, and church family. So pick up the phone to place a call, tap out a text message for one recipient, or compose an email with a personal message. And let us not forget to stay connected to God through personal devotions and family worship.
God does not do “social distancing.” While our current circumstance requires it of us, God remains committed to fostering an ever deepening connection with you “for He Himself has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you’” (Hebrews 13:5).