For those who are concerned that missing worship for fear of illness is a sin, let me say that it is not a sin.

The sin, according to our faith, is in "despising His Word and the preaching of it." (SC, 3rd Comm.) Such a charge cannot be brought against those who love the Word and Sacraments above all things. So be at peace, call for a pastoral visit if you need one, and let us pray that this will soon be over so that we can get back to our first love.

I pray that the Holy Spirit would, by this absence, make the heart grow fonder.