Masks – to wear or not to wear – that is the question. For some it’s mandatory – not an option. We have been bombarded with information regarding masks during this pandemic season. The media has presented pros and cons, all sound equally believable.
What are we to do? We roll with it. Until we have verifiable information, we obey the civic leaders and we respect each other’s space. In my case, I’ve done everything I can to avoid leaving the house, so I don’t have to wear the mask. Yes, it’s true. As much as I love people, I love NOT wearing the mask more. Zoom video conferencing has given me the people fix that I need. Certainly not as warm as a hug, but at least I can see smiles.
Panic Attack
Today I braved it and wore my houndstooth mask to Church (always a fashionista). A hot and humid Florida morning I made the mistake of wearing the mask from the moment I left the car. Overheated, by the time the service started I was having difficulty catching my breath. Fear started to creep into my thoughts. What? You mental bully – you are messing with my mind in Church? I think not! The prayer warrior in me kicked into action and soon I began to lean into the Lord’s peace. Breathing back to normal; body temperature as well. It was quite a moment.
Speaking of Smiles
Masks are a great reminder to keep our social distance. They were never meant to block communication however and yet they seem to inhibit some from polite interaction. The grocery store is a great place to strike up a conversation, bless someone with a smile or a greeting. And yet, I’ve noticed many who walk around avoiding eye contact – just following the arrows on the floor.
Our eyes speak. I’ve heard it said that the eyes are the windows to the soul. What are your eyes saying?
Are you hiding your light? In Luke 11:33-34 we read “No one lights a lamp and then puts it in a cellar nor under a basket [hiding the light], but [instead it is put] on the lampstand, so that those who come in may see the light. The eye is the lamp of your body…” (AMP)
This morning I was about to put on my lipstick and then I remembered – I’ll have a mask on! My lips may not be visible but my smile if I purpose it will come through my eyes. Kind words and greetings can still be spoken.
It’s Just a Mask
The mask is meant to protect us and others. Whether you believe this to be true or not, know that it is not an excuse to hide out. Our actions, our words, our eye contact all speak volumes. We represent our beliefs – God’s Word can still be spoken through our masks.
I’m not sure how much of my morning panic attack was due to legitimate health issues affected by the heat, the mask or some newly discovered suffocation phobia. Oi vey! Seriously don’t need to claim any of those three. No matter, I’m still responsible for reaching out to others – to encourage them and in so doing be encouraged.
We are not on hold from serving the Lord. It’s just a mask. My prayer for us…
“Therefore, my beloved brothers and sisters, be steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the work of the Lord [always doing your best and doing more than is needed], being continually aware that your labor [even to the point of exhaustion] in the Lord is not futile nor wasted [it is never without purpose].” – 1 Cor 15:58 (TPT)
Photo by Bára Buri
Maggie Sabatier-Smith
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