During this Corona pandemic, the UK government is enforcing social distancing--a practice dating back to the children of Israel during the time of the tenth plague of Egypt. But the theme of the Biblical passage is one of spiritual distancing. 

"Come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you." - 2 Corinthians 6: 17.  

This verse may seem harsh, but it contains a wonderful promise. Take the sandals off your feet, put the dazzle of city lights behind you, and then you may enter into the presence of the immortal invisible immutable Holy and Eternal God.

The presence of God is not some flippant message or forgettable video on social media. We shouldn’t sugarcoat the gospel. It doesn’t need it. In the darkness and hopelessness of a sin-filled world, God forged a way of salvation that whosoever should trust in Him will have everlasting life. In His presence is fullness of joy. It is rich and deep and secure.  Isaiah 47 describes Babylon as deluded by its knowledge and wisdom and ‘secure' in wickedness. What security is there today from living in a 'great city' like Wuhan or London? The writing is on the wall. 

"Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded" - James 4:8

"And if it seems evil to you to serve the LORD, choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD." - Joshua 24:15

What a great opportunity we have whilst social distancing to go to our inner rooms and commune with God! 

"He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty." - Psalm 91:1  

"As God has said: I will dwell in them and walk among them.  I will be their God, and they shall be my people." - 2 Corinthians 6:16b