On Tuesday, September 7, a mask mandate went into effect for all Pennsylvania schools and licensed childcare facilities. Despite the proven effectiveness of universal masking alongside other strategies (vaccines, ventilation, distancing, etc.) as a way to limit the spread of COVID-19, many people across the country are resistant to mask wearing, citing violations of their personal freedoms.
As the mom of a child who is not yet old enough to be vaccinated, and as a Christian (and pastor) who takes seriously Jesus's command to love our neighbors, I've continued to wear a mask while indoors with large groups. |
| Artwork by Pastor Jess Felici |
One of the main reasons I've continued to wear a mask is that masks work. They protect both the wearer and those around them, reducing the transmission of COVID-19 (and other germs, too!). Wearing a mask is a way to protect my son - though I'm fully vaccinated (yay, science!) we're seeing increasing numbers of breakthrough infections, particularly as the Delta variant rages. It's also a way to protect all who are vulnerable - other children, those unable to receive the vaccine, and those who are immunocompromised (and therefore receive less protection from the vaccine).
But wearing a mask isn't just a wise thing to do because of public health recommendations. It's also an important (and relatively easy) way that we as Christians show love for our neighbors, practice humility, and follow the example of Jesus. As Christians, we know that we are connected to one another, and have a duty to love one another - not love as feelings, but love as actions. As we read in Romans 13:10, "Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore, love is the fulfilling of the law."
As I've written before, the freedom we have as Christians doesn't mean that we act selfishly or do whatever we want. Instead, it's a freedom that's wrapped up in love for our neighbors. Freed from sin, death, and the devil, we are freed for love and care for one another - even when it's not convenient or comfortable. With humility, we consider the needs of others, regarding them as more significant than ourselves (Philippians 2:3).
I know that things feel pretty discouraging right now, and it's tempting to try to block it out and pretend things are back to normal. Unfortunately, though, we aren't through this yet. Persevere, take heart, be of good courage - God is with us, even now, strengthening and accompanying us as we journey through the valley of the shadow of death.
We give thanks that God has given us medical professionals and public health workers, scientists, delivery drivers, and manufacturers, who are working tirelessly to provide testing and vaccines, care for the sick, and ensure that the vulnerable are not forgotten. Guided by love and empowered by the Holy Spirit, we can come together to work for the good of all. So cover your face, wash your hands, and spread God's love, not germs!
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