Weekly pandemic update from Mitch

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Life during a pandemic sure is a balancing act. Wobbling between what is safe and what isn't, what is "essential" and what is "non-essential," making judgment calls for better or for worse. In my ministry, I have never experienced a time where each and every one of us has had to make value decisions based on personal safety and risk tolerance. What some people deem as too risky -- eating in a restaurant, going to school, going to church indoors, playing sports, watching sports, or any number of things -- another person may see as being perfectly safe. Ultimately, each of us has to choose not only for ourselves, but for the others with whom we interact.

As winter approaches and our COVID numbers continue to grow, as Dr. Fauci warns Americans about a long and potentially dangerous winter, and as Americans, in general, grow tired of both the restrictions in place and the stress of living in a pandemic, I encourage you to refrain from harsh judgment. While you may not agree with another person's behavior or choice, ask yourself what right do you have to judge. Can you have a conversation and then agree to disagree? Is this person truly affecting you or your loved ones?

I spoke to a school principal about this recently. At the time his school was remote, but soon to re-open. He wants to teach in person and he is scared for the safety of his teachers and students. Some teachers want to come back, some do not. Some are excited, some are terrified. Some parents want the school to open, others feel safest with remote learning. All involved are physically tired. He said to me, "For the entire year I am going to be making judgment decisions. Some will agree with me, some won't. I have always known that this was a part of leadership. I never knew my leadership would lead to such polarizing views." I hurt for him. My friends, before you judge others for their choices, consider first the weight on their shoulders.

In Christ,

Mitch+