The Jag Word on the Week 16th January 2021.
This has been a week where the rising tide of Covid cases was met with the first large scale vaccinations which are to grant immunity to the recipient. The hope of the scientists is that it will turn the tide and eventually see off the virus.
Like other viruses of its kind it has re-invented itself. The original Covid–19 has spawned Covid B117 which appeared first in the UK and spread rapidly in the South East of England. Another variant seems to have originated in South Africa where it has had a field day amongst the densely populated townships. It too has found its way to these Islands. Each new variant seems to be more contagious than the last.
The symptoms which marked out Covid from the Flu no longer can be relied upon. In fact, it seems now anything goes. Blocked sinuses, headache, constant clearing of the throat and a general tiredness are some of the latest signs. But more sinister is the problem of the carrier who shows no symptoms at all and is only detected when reported as a contact of someone who has the disease.
Covid has concentrated the minds of immunologists everywhere. As a result, we have 3 or 4 vaccines on the market. Apparently the research work was done with maximum co-operation by the countries involved. This is fitting for a global pandemic. Russia and China appear to have chosen to go their own way. Their vaccines may well prove to be superior to the vaccines made in the West. At present there seems to be little evidence other than political point scoring and heavily shepherded visits where these have been permitted.
The best known Biblical plagues are the 10 God created in Egypt. They were meant to show God’s power to his captive people and His authority over the Egyptians and their science, the magicians of Egypt. The plagues fell on these areas of life which were supposed to be protected by Egyptian gods. They form three groups of three with the 10th plague, the death of the firstborn being decisive in obtaining the Israelites freedom.
In parallel with the death of the firstborn in Egypt was the death of a lamb on behalf of every Israelite household. The blood of the lamb was to be applied to the two doorposts and the lintel to ensure the safety of those sheltering within. This along with certain other requirements inaugurated the first of the annual Passover feasts (Exodus chapter 12 verse 13).
The last Passover feast became the last supper where Jesus explained that his imminent death was to fulfil all that the former pointed to (1 Corinthians Chapter 5 verse 6b). Jesus has completed what was necessary for our salvation. We have the easier task by faith to follow Him.