Masks

 Whoever hates disguises himself with his lips and harbors deceit in his heart; when he speaks graciously, believe him not, for there are seven abominations in his heart; though his hatred be covered with deception,     his wickedness will be exposed in the assembly. Whoever digs a pit will fall into it, and a stone will come back on him who starts it rolling. A lying tongue hates its victims, and a flattering mouth works ruin. ~ Proverbs 26:24-28

Masked visitors are filing past my desk this morning as I write this. Their average height is about 3’ and they all carry bags or buckets for their loot. I too am masked for their protection and as each one greets me with “trick or treats” I delight in their colorful array of costumes. It is an annual tradition here at Shiloh that I really look forward to. The director and teachers of our excellent preschool, who are dressed as different colored M&M’s, bring the children to our offices so we can treat them and enjoy their company for a few minutes. 

Face masks are ubiquitous these days as we all strive to stem the spread of COVID-19. In fact, it’s astonishing to think that it would ever be OK, even encouraged to wear a mask in the bank! Yet, here we are in the lap of the strangest year anyone living can remember. Masks limit the spread of viruses, germs, and other biological hazards seem like a good idea, and the inconvenience and discomfort seem like a compassionate act of self-sacrifice for the sake of others. So, we do our best to cooperate with each other for a common good. 

Face masks, however, do little to filter deceit, condescension, and hatred. They may hide one’s mouth, but they do not stop it from speaking evil. Some masks are invisible but not silent. Carefully crafted words are often meant to mask one’s true intentions but an open mind can usually see through the disguise. The best defense against the virus of duplicity is critical thinking. 

Face masks are not meant to be worn over one’s ears! They will not filter out the things you don’t want to hear. Critical thinkers listen to words and observe deeds. They compare and contrast information and seek balance. Truth is more desirable than support for one’s opinion. Facts carry more weight than feelings. Hatred is a feeling that manifests evil. History is replete with examples of horrific, diabolical deeds that were preceded by feelings and words of hatred. The author of such hatred and the subsequent chaos is Satan, God’s sworn enemy. 

Face masks make no difference when it comes to hatred. When one’s feelings of hatred stir up anger and violent speech and deeds, it makes no difference what side one is on. Violence, whether verbal or physical, always harms someone. It is not the way of God’s children, the citizens of Christ’s Kingdom! For Christian Believers there is only One whose wrath is just and whose vengeance is righteous. When a Christian Believer is forced to protect and defend, his words and deeds are not driven by hatred, but by love. Love and devotion to our Master are the most important; love for those things that matter most to Him follows.

Read the proverb above very carefully and pray that the LORD will help you to clearly know your feelings. Ask the LORD to open your mind to facts; about yourself, your environment, your influences, and traditions. Invite the LORD to soften your heart and enlighten your mind, so that there is a holiness of heart and mind. When you are tempted to think, say, and do, ask yourself if feelings are informing you and driving you more than facts. Before you post an opinion, stake out a sign, and vote, ask the LORD to help you live as His child and love as He loves. If you say or do anything because of hatred you are serving Satan.