Luke 20:20 English Standard Version (ESV) So they watched him and sent spies, who pretended to be sincere, that they might catch him in something he said, so as to deliver him up to the authority and jurisdiction of the governor.

One could have expected a verse about end time plagues with a title like infections. This verse better serves to address my intentions. We get caught up in words silently and with little notice because after all they are just words.

During this pandemic we have seen that it infects people two weeks before symptoms appear. People are spreading the infection without even being aware that they have been infected. We cannot trust anyone for fear of infection.

So what does that have to do with words? As a devotional writer I have a responsibility to God to present His Word in relevant terms to the life we live as Christians and sinners. Coming to Christ is the only thing that matters. Being this new creation in Christ is to be exampled in how we live, to encourage each other and attract the lost to the family of God. We are to be welcoming.

These times have caused me to use words and verses that border on fear mongering. I may not have crossed the line but my heart tells me I have strayed too far afield of my calling. At times I feel like I am close to making a sandwich board with “The End is Coming!” written on both sides.

No one should be made to fear to come to Christ, not like that. Our lives are meant to share love, not fear. What I might know about bible prophecy should be used to encourage not frighten. What I am unsure about was not meant to spread fear and doubt. It should spur me on to spread the gospel of Christ all the more, not less.

If I have infected anyone with my words, please know the Jesus is our great healer. Turn to Him.