Lessons Learned from My Sickness Part 30: Mask
BY PASTOR RONNY LUCES
One of the funniest movies that I saw was entitled, “The Mask” starring Jim Carrey.
I’m sure many people have seen that movie, and perhaps remember the scenes that made them laugh and momentarily forget their cares and problems.
One of the most frequently offered advice given to me by people who are concerned about my health is to view funny movies so that I can laugh and be stressed free.
Perhaps I will ask my daughter to look for a downloadable version of that movie so that I can watch it again. But it’s not the reason why I mention the word “mask” in this lesson.
I’m referring to a different kind of mask – one that is not worn for disguise, performance or entertainment, but protection.
I’m referring to the sanitary face mask that has been a part of my outfit since I was diagnosed with sickness. I was made to wear a mask, wherever I go at all times.
The only times that I remove my face mask was when I was eating or taking a bath. I must admit that it caused me some discomfort at times.
Sometimes I have difficulty in breathing normally because I was made to wear double when visiting public places (church, restaurants, etc.). But I understand the underlying concern behind this instruction.
Reflecting on this theologically, I discovered that God also uses our discomforts for our protection. In other words, not everything that caused us inconvenience is bad for us.
Swedish composer Lina Sandell Berg wrote, “Day by day and with each passing moment, Strength I find to meet my trials here; Trusting in my Father’s wise bestowment. I’ve no cause for worry or fear”.
What discomforts are you experiencing right now? Perhaps they are given to you for your own protection.
Posted on FB: Monday, 23 March 2015 at 2:13 PM
About the Author
Rev. Ronny Luces was the Minister for Administration and Community Service of the Jaro Evangelical Church (JEC), Iloilo City, Philipines. He and his wife, Martha have been with JEC’s ministry since 1994.
Pastor Ronny graduated from Central Philippine University College of Theology in 1985 and was pastor of several Baptist churches.
In January 2015, after tests and two long hospital confinements, Pastor Ronny got the word he had lung cancer. He underwent chemotherapy.
Praying for healing and going through all the medical processes, Pastor Ronny wrote his reflections “Lessons Learned from My Sickness.” In July 2015, he passed away.
May Pastor Ronny’s series of reflections and meditations strengthen your hope and faith as you go through your own life’s battles.
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