As the numbers of confirmed Covid-19 cases continue to fall, especially in the Northeast where much of the population is vaccinated, and in spite of cold snaps here and there – hopefully – the weather is becoming more moderate -- wintry mixes – love that phrase – instead of snow, governors are eliminating mask mandates.
But there is a small part of our population, or is a better word national community, that is seriously concerned about a return to the “old normal.” Immunocompromised persons, those with conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, serious diabetes, or who are taking certain medications as part of their treatment for cancer are more at risk.
People in our national community who fall into these categories need protection from the rest of us who could be carrying not just Covid but a so-called regular flu virus. We who are the healthy ones need to be concerned about those who are reasonably concerned for their health. Using masks in indoor places where we might encounter people more at risk than ourselves is a sign of our consideration for others.
Prayer for the Day
You summon the earth from the rising of the sun
And keep us in your heart until the sun sets no more;
Impart to us your wisdom, immerse us in your justice
So we reflect your mercy to the community wherein we live.
Engage us into conversation with the One
Who calls us to reflect your righteousness.
We ask this in the name of him who calls us to mercy,
Even Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
Intensely selfish people are always very decided as to what they wish. They do not waste their energies in considering the good of others.
- Ouida, English novelist (1839-1908)
We must delight in each other, make others conditions our own, rejoice together, mourn together, labor and suffer together, always having before our eyes, our commission and community in the work, our community as members of the same body.
- John Winthrop, Governor Massachusetts Bay Colony (1588-1649)
All things are lawful but not all things are beneficial;
All things are lawful but not all things build up;
Do not seek your own advantage but that of the other
1 Corinthians 23-24