The Illusion of Control

March 17, 2020

I've been thinking a lot about “control.” Too often I believe I have control but soon realize that this is just an illusion. In the end, what real control do we really have? Perhaps we have some micro-control, but even then, our bodies can get sick enough where we have little to no say in what happens.

I suppose the only control we have is in our "will", in how we respond to what is happening around us or to us. Even that is difficult because our emotions can batter our intent to stay steady. In the end, my hope is in the God revealed through Scripture and ultimately through Jesus Christ.

The Bible reveals that God is in control, “Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand.” (Proverbs 19:21) And peace comes as our minds stay fixed on Him, “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock.” (Isaiah 26:3+4)

Quite frankly, I’m conflicted about coming back into the US during this time. Frightened herds begging for government control is, and always has been, a recipe for disaster. Governmental control once gained is not easily relinquished once the crisis is over. The virus is just starting to manifest in Mexico along with the accompanying panicky fear. Who knows what it will be like down here if either or both take hold?

In the end, I will do what I can to fight the spread of both crises by praying, staying vigilant, and being there for friends and family alike.