Some Call It "Fear," But I Call It "Love."

Some call it "fear," but I call it "love." As one who lives with a weakened immune system, I want to say "thank you" to those who have symptoms of any viral infection (cough, nasal drainage, fever, malaise, etc.) who stay home rather than going to work, school, work, church or any other gatherings. Even though you probably don't have COVID-19, it is flu season and flu can (and does) kill those who are in any way immunocompromised.

For my Christian friends, "fear not" does not mean "love not." Love takes precedence and "love always protects (1 Cor 13:4–7). Jesus teaches his followers, “In everything do to others as you would have them do to you; for this is the law and the prophets" (Matt 7:12). What if you were the person who is well, but has underlying and chronic health conditions? What would you want those who are symptomatic of any viral infection to do? Would you want them to demonstrate their faith by attending church, going to work or attending classes?

Perhaps you think that those Christians who choose to avoid gatherings right have a weak faith. If so, I urge you to read Romans 14:1–15:6. Perhaps, rather, these so-called "weak" Christians don't have confidence that some of their fellow Christians will think about others first (See also Phil 2:1–3).

• Welcome those who are weak in faith, but not for the purpose of quarrelling over opinions. (14:1)
• Why do you pass judgment on your brother or sister? Or you, why do you despise your brother or sister? (14:10)
• We who are strong ought to put up with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. (15:1)

Whether you live with a weakened immune system, or are healthy but have symptoms of a viral infection, don't let yourself be spiritually bullied by those who call your faithfulness into question because you choose to follow the advice of medical experts who are working tirelessly to halt the spread of infection. Protect others and yourself. Stay home and get well. Reach out to others via phone, text, messaging, FaceTime, etc. God will not save us from arrogance and selfishness.