As I listened to the morning news regarding this Coronovirus, the numbers of infected continues to grow. As I write this, there are four confirmed positive people in Tama County. By the time this is printed that number could easily have doubled or tripled. The authorities report that the peak of the contamination may reach us in the next two to three weeks. I give thanks that we live in such a rural environment that our numbers are so low. This is not to say we should take the virus less seriously. And so, as so many are doing, we are practicing ‘social distancing.’ How’s that going for you? Our household has broken into the jigsaw puzzles that have been in storage for many years. We’re finding that 500 piece puzzles might have only 495. How much time is spent on finding the missing pieces! This ‘social distancing’ has its frustrations and its blessings. Perhaps the greatest frustration is the cancelation of our worship services. The fellowship that is enjoyed is a great part of the service. The family of faith strengthens the resolve of the individual members. Our time together is enjoyed through the combined voices of singing and praying. What a blessing when we can gather together in fellowship. So, when we can’t it is frustrating. Whenever our daily/weekly schedules are upset, we can become frustrated. We are in unchartered territory with this extended cancelation and closing of so many activities and businesses. When we become uncertain of the future, fear can creep in. While a vaccine for this virus is still in development, is there an antidote to the fear we might be experiencing? I believe the answer is ‘yes.’ Victory over fear is found in faith, and fear is found through worship, whether in community or in isolation. Author Ken Gire as written that, in worship we learn the lessons of faith when life is calm, so we may be prepared when the winds of adversity rise up against us. The Bible offers incredible guidance when faced with fear. Isaiah 41:10 records God’s encouragement, “Do not fear, for I am with you…I will give you strength…I’ll hold you steady.” In his second letter to an uncertain Timothy, Paul reminded him that he had not been given a spirit of fear, but of wisdom (1:7). One consequence of fear is uncertainty. We have the benefit of God’s wisdom as it has been expressed in the Bible. God’s wisdom will bring comfort in the midst of uncertainty. In this time of social distancing for control of a virus pandemic, find time for companionship with God. Seek God’s comfort through study of the Psalms. David’s Psalm 13 found him in a time of discomfort, and he cried out, “How long, O Lord?” Are you experiencing the same frustration? Find relief, as David did, by reflecting on the blessings God had poured over him…“My heart rejoices in your salvation, for [You have] dealt bountifully with me.” May the coming days and weeks give you time to reflect on your blessings…and give thanks.