How sick is sick?
From Guideposts.com
With the seasonal blast of flu viruses—and many doctors’ offices still without the vaccine— is there anything we can do to avoid getting sick? A few nights ago, the TV news featured a rabbi explaining that hugs had been discontinued at his synagogue for fear of members passing the virus to one another. He was followed by a minister recommending that his congregation use fist bumps to greet one another instead of shaking hands. In some Catholic parishes, dispensing wine in a common cup at communion time has been halted for the time being, the newscaster informed us; a practice carried on during both the Black and Bubonic plagues. The whole thing sounded pretty serious. It’s one thing to wash one’s hands frequently or take other precautions when out in public. But somehow I’ve always considered church a “safe haven,” even from germs.
Not so. When we went to church this past Sunday, it sounded like an infirmary. Coughs predominated but sneezes, especially the really LOUD ones, were running a close second. (This is where I start to sound like a little old lady with her pointer finger up): How can we avoid passing flu bugs around? if you have anything resembling a cold, STAY HOME. Yes, even from church.
Do we really think that God will be upset with us if we miss being in his holy presence out of love for our neighbors? Is a “good” Christian measured by the length of time she spends in public prayer? Am I sick, but not sick enough to stay home from church? We all know the answers to these questions, and maybe it’s time we cut ourselves some slack, especially during this upcoming winter.
And here’s another way: Aren’t angels our protectors? And if they can shield us from automobile accidents or get us out of the way of that falling tree, perhaps God has also given them the power to wrap their wings around us when the danger is microscopic-sized. The next time someone coughs on you, envision your guardian angel putting up a barrier between you and the sick person. Then avoid crowds, enjoy chicken soup and give thanks.
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I have never understood the fuss concerning the possibility of contracting infection at Mass. Surely it is a matter of Trust in God, who creates everything including Germs.Whilst sickness does not come from God, it is something that can only happen if he so allows. To say that we should avoid taking the Precious Blood from the common Chalice is perverse and with such an attitude we actually prevent God from protecting us. The precious Blood is given as an act of Love and is also part of God’s healing of us, body and Soul.