August 2020- Is It A Sin to Wear A Mask?
Some today are saying we should not obey laws requiring us to wear a mask in public places. In fact, some even recommend rebelling against such laws. The only reason which permits us to disobey a law is a higher law. "But Peter and the apostles answering, said: We ought to obey God, rather than men." (Acts of Apostles 5:29) And so the only thing that permits us to set aside these laws is that it is a sin to wear a mask. Otherwise to disobey a law is also a sin. "Admonish them to be subject to princes and powers, to obey at a word, to be ready to every good work." (Titus 3:1)
"Let every soul be subject to higher powers: for there is no power but from God: and those that are, are ordained of God." (Romans 13:1)
Let us remember that ALL authority comes from God, both secular and religious.
As such we have a duty to obey in all things except sin. Let us further remember that doubtful cases are to be decided in favor of the superior. We must be certain before we may take any action against a superior. Let us follow the example of Jesus: "Jesus answered: Thou shouldst not have any power against me, unless it were given thee from above. Therefore, he that hath delivered me to thee, hath the greater sin." (John 19:11)
"By me kings reign, and lawgivers decree just things, By me princes rule, and the mighty decree justice." (Proverbs 8:15-16) God has our rulers in His hands. Our best weapon against what we think is unjust or evil authority is prayer. In fact in many cases this is our own weapon. In the United States and other places there may be a legal recourse in some instance, which we may take. For instance in the county in which We live, someone testified before the county commission, which was deciding on what to pass in regard to masks for the county. This person was against wearing masks and voicing her concern to those in authority. This person was taking advantage of this opportunity granted under law.
The problem today is that many are using the wrong forum to voice their concerns. The internet is rife with such rants and raves, when we should be silent. If We had a concern, We would approach those in authority directly and voice Our concerns. Otherwise We encourage obedience to the authorities and prayer.
There are some, who have a legitimate objection to wearing a mask, those with health issues that will be worsened by such a requirement. In the United States this is addressed by the Americans with Disabilities Act, which exempts them from such requirements. Usually orders to wear masks in certain situations repeat such exemptions.
There is a saying, you get the government you deserve. And so if we desire a better government let us pray for one.
Prayer is the place to start to improve the world.
We cannot talk others into improving, if we ourselves are not working to become saints ourselves.
The most important steps are conversion, repentance and prayer. Repentance includes penance, but goes further to fulfilling the recommendation of Jesus: "Go and sin no more." (John 5:14; 8:11) Unfortunately many today are misinterpreting this as sin no more than I am now, but sin no less. Sin no more means to remove sin from our lives. By ourselves this is impossible, but "with God all things are possible." (Matthew 19:26; Mark 10:27; Luke 18:27) God will help us to overcome sin and remove sin from our lives, if we will ask Him. "Ask and receive that your joy may be full." (John 16:24) The reason we do not sincerely ask God to take our sin from us is that we still want our pet sin(s). Let us then ask God to remove our love for our pet sin(s). Let us acknowledge our weakness and His strength.
You may ask what all of this has to do with face masks? The reason some are rebelling against the use of face masks, when requested, is that deep down that they want to do everything their own way. Face masks are a symbol of obedience, and some want to rebel. Let us remember where disobedience began and with whom and his or her current address. Lucifer said: "I will not serve." Christians are servants by vocation. We serve the secular rulers in all things, except sin. It is not sin to wear a face mask, so when requested, put yours on.
