This is the rainy day, so get on the ark

In the Biblical story of Noah and the ark, Noah and his family were spared from the floodwaters because “Noah was a righteous man, blameless in his generation; Noah walked with God.” They were the only humans saved. All others perished.

Modern versions of the Biblical story have been altered in many ways. One such change has Noah urging the greater community (not just his family) to get on the ark because the rains were coming and there would be a great flood.

However, these people mocked Noah, did not heed his warnings and perished as a result.

This version of the story is the one I’m referencing today.

Recently, I’ve witnessed too many folks who are still playing politics. Some of us are blaming President Trump concerning how the coronavirus outbreak is being handled. Others are blaming Governor Inslee.

A short while ago, Governor Inslee announced bans that have affected bars and restaurants in Washington state, all gatherings with 50-plus people, and those gatherings under 50 must meet certain standards.

Many of us were understandably upset. People’s jobs and businesses are on the line. Many blame Inslee for being overreactive.

However, President Trump has now issued a decree of national guidance to “limit gatherings to 10 people.”

Drastic but necessary actions are being implemented from both sides of the aisle.

Some have recently said that a “true patriot,” is now one who can (at least temporarily) put aside bias and work together for the common good.

These are indeed troubling times. I am unsure how businesses will weather this storm. Personally, I am unsure how churches will survive. For the past two Sundays giving has been abysmal at our church. I suspect it may be the same for others.

I watched a group of people the other day. There were pessimists among them concerning coronavirus. Some mocked aspects of “social distancing,” and believed that all of this is being overblown. I have heard others laugh out loud and declare confidently that this is “just a hoax.”

As I write this article (Monday), Dr. Deborah Birx, White House coronavirus response coordinator, told us that the “virus (can be spread) before there are symptoms.” This is frightening.

The vast majority of people who catch this virus will be just fine. However, there are a number of us who are older, have certain conditions, and will be in greater danger.

If certain measures are not taken now to slow the spread of the virus, our health care system may become overwhelmed (as it is in other countries).

If this is the case, not everyone who needs hospitalization (for any malady) will be able to do so.

One should not take this lightly. Do not panic but be sure to take necessary precautions. This should not only be for ourselves, but also to protect those around us.

Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases has said: “So take a look at the guidelines and read them carefully, and we hope that the people of the United States will take them very seriously because they will fail if we do not adhere to them.”

I see those who are in denial and disbelief, perhaps even mocking such advice, as behaving like those who laughed at Noah before the rains poured from the heavens with vengeance.

Proverbs 12:15 says “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man is he who listens to counsel.”

This is the rainy day, so get on board.

Walter is pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church and has served as parish pastor for more than 30 years.