Theological Reflections on the Pandemic: A Journal of Bible and Theology

ABSTRACT

As a response to communities of faith that are trying to make sense of the COVID-19 pandemic, this essay explores biblical traditions about "chaos” represented by primordial waters and monsters that disturb the created order. The essay begins with a summary of three biblical portrayals of chaos chaos as integral to the created world, chaos as mystery, and chaos intensified by human rebellion. The discussion then weighs divine sovereignty and human responsibility and accepts that chaos is a part of life that challenges humans to work to make this world a better place. Among many possible responses to the chaos presented by the pandemic, this article will focus on lament, fear and trust, and repentance.