Masks are the latest fashion statement. You see all styles representing people’s habits and personalities. There are the basic generic disposable ones as well as the colorful ones that some purchase, so they complement their outfit for the day. Regardless of the style, it hides half of your face. The only way we can tell if you are smiling is if your eyes squint a little.
There are divided opinions about the use of masks, and it has become very political. If you know me at all, you know that I hate politics. We are in troubled times right now with the spread of Covid-19 and the politics of the election taking place. What I want to know is, “Who is the person behind the mask?” How are you affected by the circumstances and is your true self showing through?
Social distancing is necessary. Relational distancing is not. Let us seize the opportunity to check on our neighbors. Let us build a relational bridge when the virus wants to create a social moat. It is more important than ever to be close to each other as we are separated. What are you doing to build those relationships?
The message of caring for others is throughout scripture and the center of Christian faith. In the Bible, we are taught about “not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” (Philippians 2::4). For the Christian, how well we endure in sacrificially serving the vulnerable is one of the greatest indicators of how deeply we have understood what Christ has done for us.
Jesus used the parable of the good Samaritan to show how we should take care of each other, regardless of how society thinks we are different from them. Fast forward to 2020 and we find others struggling with their health due to contracting the virus, the effects of lost income, anxiety, depression, and other issues brought on by what has taken place this year. We need to put aside our differences in opinions about the severity of the virus, whose fault it is, and how to approach it. We need to love our neighbor and take care of those in need.
When the mask comes off, who is behind it? Are you the loving, caring Christian that allows others to see Christ in your actions? I pray that you are.
