As the COVID-19 vaccine rolls out across the country, companies and schools are making plans for how to resume business as normal. One key piece of these proposals is to have accurate documentation of the vaccination. Major healthcare organizations like the Mayo Clinic and technological leaders such as Microsoft have joined forces to create the Vaccine Credential Initiative. The goal of the initiative is to create a secure digital record that can be stored and accessed via smartphone. Whether traveling abroad, entering a concert venue, or simply going to work, individuals will have a unique QR code that verifies they received the vaccine and also store any COVID-19 test results.

Teamwork makes the dream work

The Vaccine Credential Initiative is one example of people coming together to address issues that are a result of the COVID pandemic. Earlier in the pandemic, Apple and Google paired up to develop a system to alert users if they had been exposed to the coronavirus. Over the past year, administrative boards of businesses and organizations all over the world have spent tireless hours troubleshooting and creating policies regarding everyday operations during this health crisis. All in all, cooperation has been essential in these times to ensure the safety and well-being of all God’s people.   

Two heads are better than one 

Teenagers today often find themselves in competition with one another. Whether it’s being ranked at the top of the class, making the varsity sports team, or running in the popular crowd, the competitive nature of adolescence can lead to much stress and apprehension. Helping teenagers see the value of collaboration over competition will help develop their respect for others and their ability to solve problems. Ecclesiastes 4:9 says, “Two are better than one because they have a good return for their hard work.” When people work together, they can accomplish much more than they can separately. Combining the gifts and talents of many people can lead to amazing results for God’s kingdom.

Question of the day: How does it feel to be a part of a group that does not work well together?
Focal scriptures: Psalm 133; Nehemiah 4:1-15; Luke 5:17-26