| Freedom/Autonomy We are in the midst of a pandemic. We are at war and the enemy is the Covid-19 virus. Unfortunately, we do not seem united in dealing with the enemy which attacks all of us. We have let politics enter into the mix. The example that strikes me the most is the use of masks. Some, particularly the scientific community, say that we should use masks in public to protect ourselves and others from passing the virus on. There are others who say that no one can demand that we wear a mask in public. The issue of wearing a mask has raised the question of freedom and autonomy. We are autonomist in the sense we are free to make our own decisions. However, freedom of choice does not mean we are autonomist. In our society we are in relationship with other people and must must keep them in mind when we make our decisions. Freedom does not mean autonomy. Freedom requires us to be responsible. We are called to be able to respond to a situation and most of all be willing to take the consequences of our action. With the issue of wearing a mask in public or not it is our decision. What is the best for all concern? I believe it is to wear a mask in public. I think that the autonomist person is self-centered and only thinking of himself. You cannot tell me what to do. They lack compassion for other and are not willing to take a stance of compassion for others. Freedom for me is to make appropriate choices in light of Jesus’ command to love my neighbor as myself and the willingness to take the consequences of our actions. I should not become self centered in autonomy believing my actions doe not impact others. Lest us all in our freedom care for self and for one another. Blessing upon you and the congregation of Pilgrim church, Pastor Ken |
| Blessing upon you and the congregation of Pilgrim church, Pastor Ken |