So, here we are in the midst of a "quarantine," the latin root word of which is "forty." Why is forty so important? Mentioned 146 times in Scripture, the number 40 generally heralds a period of testing and transformation.
For example, the flood was caused by a rain that fell for 40 days and 40 nights and Moses spent 40 days on Mount Sinai when he was given the 10 Commandments. When Moses sent men to scout the land of Canaan, they were gone for 40 days. In Judges 3, "The land had rest for 40 years" after many years of war. The Israelites spent 40 years in the desert before they took the promised land and Goliath stalked the Israelite army for 40 days before David got out his slingshot. Solomon reined for 40 years, Jesus fasted for 40 days and we spend 40 days in Lent before Easter.
Therefore it is understandable that many theologians believe the number 40 uniquely represents transformation—a time of preparing to make important fundamental changes in the way we live, or the way we approach life. Lent in modern times often triggers an analysis of our own bad habits, which we "give up" during Lent to prepare for personal breakthroughs.
Interestingly—at least in Indiana— the strict quarantine may last just about 40 days. Many believe something will happen after these 40 days, and note that all this time, vegetation is still springing back to life, the air is becoming cleaner because of less pollution, and although there is illness, healing is also happening. In many ways, the Earth is at rest for the first time in many years and the peace that has been imposed on us has also brought a new level of equanimity to many.
The year 2020 is remarkable as well, as it indicates perfect vision but also because 20 plus 20 equals 40. Coincidence? Maybe. But I've learned to recognize acts of the Divine over the years. Our existence is part of the biggest puzzle in the universe and there is one hand guiding everything into place. Just think about the amazing timing and "coincidences" that have taken place in your own life. The odds may not have been in your favor, but you met that person, or you got that job, or were otherwise in just the right place at the right time...HMMM.
God did not initiate this pandemic, but He will definitely use it as a teaching tool. So, while we mourn our loss of freedom, we recognize the opportunity to seek within and ready ourselves for whatever change is in store. Meanwhile God continues his love of numbers, from zebra stripes to a spider's web, a system of mathematics emerges in nature that is astounding. So 40? Look around, things are in the process of change and I'm pretty sure it will be good.
Stay well,
Nancy
