Are We Our Brothers' Keepers?
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On the day I wrote this article, I read that Covid-19 cases had doubled in the previous 14 days.
It was a grim reminder that the danger and suffering of the pandemic is still with us. Over 40% of the population has not had a single dose of the vaccine, including every child younger than 12.
Jesus was very clear in teaching his followers what is most important, to love God and to love each other as we love ourselves (Mt 22:34-40).
As followers of Jesus, what can we do to protect those people who are most vulnerable?
Simple – we can get a vaccine and willingly cooperate with public health protocols.
Recently, I began visiting hospitals for the first time since the pandemic began. While the protocols take time and may be inconvenient and uncomfortable, I accept and respect the necessity of protecting patients whose immune systems are weakened.
Those front-line healthcare workers who experienced the trauma of the worst of the pandemic understand the importance of protection.
Loving our neighbors during a pandemic means that we all must accept minor inconveniences in order to protect those who are most vulnerable
While my wife and I have enjoyed restaurant meals lately, we usually eat outdoors or bring our meals home to eat. I’m still uncomfortable being in a crowded room where nobody is wearing a mask, as I experienced recently when I picked up our takeout meal. I wondered how many of the patrons and staff were in the unvaccinated 40%.
Loving our neighbors during a pandemic means that we all must accept minor inconveniences in order to protect those who are most vulnerable – people who are older, immune-compromised, children, and even those who choose not to get a vaccine. Because I work with older adults, I always wear a mask in public places, whether required or not. It is how I can help protect those I serve.
So, whether you are eating out, visiting a hospital, or sitting in worship, I encourage you to remember the words of Jesus, “Just as you did it (for) one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it (for) me” (Mt. 25:40).
Let’s all continue to protect and love our vulnerable brothers and sisters.
Greg Smith
Director of Legacy Ministry