COVID-19 in Japan

The cleaning wipes and solution shelves

The toilet paper aisle

When the doors to the train opened, I paused in surprise at the few masked people staring back at me on the train. Usually the train is nearing full by our station. Following the government’s request, many offices shifted work times or allowed remote working to alleviate rush hour commuting. Except for a few extreme cases, everyone dons a face of calmness and normality while facing the threat of COVID-19.

The supermarket tells a different story. Masks have been scarce in stores for a while, stores limiting purchases to one box when shipments arrive. This has not stopped some from making a profit by selling masks on the internet. Next, after a reportedly false Facebook rumor about manufacturing issues, toilet paper and tissues flew off the shelves and remain difficult to find. Finally, this past weekend, we found many of the dry goods shelves to be empty, though thankfully shelves were partially stocked again during our next trip to the store.

A popular park on a beautiful, warm Saturday. Parents seem to have kept their children home after schools were asked to close.

Underlying fear and panic seem to have grabbed hold of Japan, yet the church seems different. Churches are taking appropriate steps for safety, even canceling events or services where necessary. However, people seem to be trusting God to protect and control the situation, which gives off a calming feeling.
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This calming feeling could be one of the greatest advantages for engaging people here in Japan. A voice of reason, not based on scientific hypotheses or government decisions, but founded in the character of God and the power of the Gospel is powerful. The peace of God that surpasses all understanding is one of the aspects of grace that can be observed and felt. The question is, will the church step up and be the light in a dark, scary world?