When There is No Clarity Exercise Charity

Let’s face it friends, there are times when there is no clarity. This pandemic is an example. We just don’t have enough information to be confident that the right decisions are being made. We know contagion is spread by close, personal contact … but how close? It may live on surfaces for a time …. but how long? Masks might protect us, or at least others… do we wear them all the time?…. only inside?…. only when social distancing isn’t possible? Gloves are helpful … but only if you change them every time you touch something different. Infections seem to be declining …. but will there be another wave? A vaccine is in the offing …. but how long until it can be tested and produced safely? Certain drugs could help …. or on the other hand, maybe they’re dangerous. We should probably stay home alone …. or only with our families …. or in groups of ten or less …. or gather only outside … or who knows?

Understandably this is causing a lot of anxiety and disagreement, even in churches. Can we resume services? Can we sing? How do we offer communion? Do we have to wear masks? Is it okay to touch doorknobs? Should overhead fans be turned off? How far do we sit from one another? Well, you get the idea. There are a million questions, and almost as many opinions. Some want to keep things 100% safe (not possible); others want to behave as if everything is the same as it was a few months ago (also not possible).

So what should we do? As always pray. Be considerate of others, regardless of their viewpoint (this is charity, or love). Be kind, gentle and respectful in expressing our feelings (this is self-control). Put others first — do what you can to allay fear (this is self-sacrifice). Wait before judging because things will become clearer in time (patience). In other words, practice the fruit of the Spirit (described in Galatians). This is our calling as followers of Christ. The crisis can tear us apart, or set us apart. Let the world see how we love one another.