1 Kings 8.37-40
[37] ‘When famine or plague comes to the land, or blight or mildew, locusts or grasshoppers, or when an enemy besieges them in any of their cities, whatever disaster or disease may come, [38] and when a prayer or plea is made by anyone among your people Israel – being aware of the afflictions of their own hearts, and spreading out their hands towards this temple – [39] then hear from heaven, your dwelling-place. Forgive and act; deal with everyone according to all they do, since you know their hearts (for you alone know every human heart), [40] so that they will fear you.
In his prayer at the dedication of the temple, Solomon thought about some of the things that might befall God’s people, such as plague or a siege. He had never encountered coronavirus, but he knew that disasters, man-made or natural, were an opportunity for us to turn to God and acknowledge his sovereignty. And he knew that God was always ready and waiting to be merciful in answer to his people’s prayers.
Father, have mercy on us in our plight, send your salvation!
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