Why it makes sense for Christians to not wear face masks

I see a lot of people exhorting non-mask wearers to wear a mask.  I know many Christians are wearing masks – out in public, and in group assemblies.  At the same time, I know there are many Christians who are not wearing masks in public or in group assemblies.  While this may seem confusing, there might be a good rationale for Christians to choose to not wear a mask in public or in group assemblies.  Here is my best attempt to provide that rationale:

I love God with all my heart by not wearing a face mask in public during a growing viral pandemic—this is an act of my love towards God, according to the greatest commandment (Matthew 22: 37-38).  I love my neighbor as myself when I do not wear a face mask in public during a growing viral pandemic—this is an act of my love towards my neighbors, according to the second greatest commandment (Matthew 22: 39).  Moreover, I demonstrate my humility and valuing others above my own interests by not wearing a face mask in public during a growing viral pandemic, in order to display the same mindset as my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (Philippians 2: 3-8).  I must do this, to adhere to these Biblical teachings, despite what my government, scientists, public health officials, co-workers, community members and friends say to the contrary.  Ultimately, I do this as a messenger of God’s great love for mankind (John 3:16). My role, as a Christian, is to abide in God’s love, and share that love with others – tell people about God’s love (Mark 16:15).  I feel I can best convey God’s love to others—serve as God’s messenger (2 Corinthians 5:20)—by not wearing a mask in public during a growing viral pandemic.  My unveiled face reflects the glory of God (2 Corinthians 3:18)

This is my act of sacrificial love in the midst of a spreading, communicable, and deadly pathogen – that others may notice the glory of God on my face, and my sincere and genuine love for them, and how I am putting their needs above my own desires, by not wearing a mask, in the hope that some may approach me and question how it is that I – a complete stranger – can love in this manner.  Situations like these provide opportunities for me to share that my love is the product of God’s great love for me, and how they can experience that love as well, through Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior.

If you know a Christian who does not wear a face mask, please share this with them - I'd love their feedback.  After all, I am on a quest to align my understanding as close as possible to what's really happening.

Comments

  1. Would Jesus wear a face mask if he were in a pandemic if the government told him to?

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    Replies
    1. That's a good question! It's hard to know. While God is consistent in character, God's actions/behaviors are hard to predict. It's clear from the Bible that Jesus behaved in surprising ways, often confusing to those around him. Part of me thinks maybe He would; part of me thinks he wouldn't need to, so why would He? I guess I'm stuck in the middle - somewhere I'm comfortable being!

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