The Corona Virus is a Crown that will Not Last 

The Coronavirus gets its name from the word ‘corona’ which means crown in Latin and in Spanish.  Coronavirus has a series of crown-like spikes on its surface, which is the reason for the name. 

Names are significant.  In the midst of a lot of panic and fear over the Coronavirus, how can we be encouraged by the biblical symbol of the crown?  The metaphor of the crown is used in many ways in the Bible. 

While most of the uses of “crown” in the Bible refer to the exalted status of God and kings, and the crown worn by every believer who runs the race of faith, there are also negative uses of the word.  Locusts wear crowns (Rev 9), as do the beast and dragon in Revelation (Rev 12, 13).  This speaks of a destructive power.  

The Coronavirus is a bad kind of crown.  But there is good news… The Coronavirus WILL NOT LAST.   It will fade away.  Before we know it, we will be remembering it as a thing of the past… “Remember that crazy virus?” 

The Apostle Paul made a big deal out of difference between temporary and eternal crowns.  He writes about the imperishable crown that goes to the Christian who completes the race in contrast to crowns won by athletes, which will fade with time. The unfading crown of life, joy and righteousness will last forever.  Peter writes: “when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.”  1 Peter 5:4 

While we take practical steps to avoid catching or spreading the Coronavirus, we ought to think about the crown that will last.  The crown of glory we receive as we run the race of faith WILL LAST FOREVER. 

But we don’t have to WAIT to wear crowns from God.  In Christ, we are already wearing the crowns of love, compassion, joy and righteousness. 

“To experience the blessing of his character and activity on one's behalf is said to be a crown. So his lovingkindness and mercy can be a crown (Psalm 103:4) as can mere relationship with him (Isaiah 28:5).” (Baker’s Evangelical Dictionary). 

I encourage you to enjoy your position as a treasured member of God’s family and rejoice in your lasting crown!

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