She doesn't know she is supposed to be cowering, or hoarding, or panicking.

She runs up and offers cuddles to the various members of our household. No social distancing here.

She has something that I want the rest of us to have too - peace, and a sense of safety.

It's not naive. It's not childish. Her peace and safety come from an experience of love. In our household, from her siblings and her parents.

If this wasn't your childhood experience, I'm really sorry and I wish it had been otherwise for you.

If peace and safety aren't your present experience because of COVID-19, I'm really sorry, and I want to offer you hope. You don't have to be cowering, or hoarding, or panicking.

Jesus battled with death and came out the other side. It doesn't change the danger, or guarantee health now - but there's a future after suffering. Christians know we are loved by God even in the valleys.

If you want to talk, find us on Facebook, or ring our church office and I'll get in touch.

You don't have to stay scared.

- Rev Kristan Slack, St Paul's Anglican Church, Katherine.