In April, 2020, I participated in the “Cheer Up Campaign” held by ASEZ, the Church of God University Student Volunteer Group, hoping to ride out COVID-19. The Cheer Up Campaign is an activity to deliver encouragement letters and gifts to those who are exhausted physically and mentally in the wake of COVID-19, and to those who fight against the pandemic.
First, we expressed our intention to send gifts of encouragement to a local public health center. Then we wrote the letters of encouragement and packed snacks wholeheartedly, in the earnest hope that our gifts would bring some comfort and encouragement to the medical staff and quarantine officials who were working hard to ensure the health and safety of people.
When we visited the public health center, the healthcare workers were guarding the screening center while wearing heavy or layered protective clothing under the scorching sun. Just seeing them at a distance made us feel a lump in our throat.
Not long after, the deputy director of the public health center came out and welcomed us, saying, “You are the first university students who actually came to deliver encouraging letters and snacks. Thank you so much.” Hearing him say that, we deeply realized how important it is to comfort and encourage one another, especially in tough times. We also realized that although we are restricted in many activities, we can constantly practice the teaching of the Bible, “Love your neighbors.” We will willingly share God’s love with anyone who needs help. This must be the most valuable work that we can do.