Pandemics, panic and peace

Despite the panic and amid the white noise of the world's often-confused counsel, God's voice speaks plainly, calling us to think clearly and prepare properly in the face of the swine flu pandemic.

1. The Lord God remains in control of all things.
2. The Lord God has sovereignly determined the spread, effect and toll of this disease.
3. The Lord God in mercy and goodness has provided means to promote and secure the health of his creatures.
4. The Lord God has particular regard for his people, and is able to preserve and protect them by any means he chooses.
5. The Lord God will glorify his name in this, whether or not we understand how.

In the light of such truth, we must prepare to live (serving, preaching, praying and shining), and prepare to die, for it will come to each one of us at some time.