Christian Medical and Dental Association urges churches to pause gathering: Don't make church an idol

Setting aside the central health concerns of the article, “gathering together as our Lord commanded to worship Him” ranks pretty low on my list of incipient idolatry. Hard to imagine different for most Americans.

Just learned that the ADA lobbied hard and successfully in North Carolina to get Dentist’s offices on the “Essential services” list so they won’t be curtailed during the pandemic. I can’t think of a more risky activity than getting your face into someone’s mouth.

Isn’t it more than a bit hypocritical to call for churches to stop gathering because of the pandemic while keeping dentist’s open? If they are sincere, let them lead the way by voluntarily shutting down the dental practices. (For the record, I actually favor keeping them open. I’m simply calling for integrity. Don’t try to shame others into doing what you are unwilling to do yourself.)

I agree! I actually can’t think of anything more likely to give you COVID than visiting a dentist! Insane.

[TylerR]

I agree! I actually can’t think of anything more likely to give you COVID than visiting a dentist! Insane.

Well, I’ve kept my May and November dentist appointments this year, just like any year. So far, so good. What I thought was crazy was the fact that they are in my face working on my teeth, but from inside the door until I’m seated in the dentist’s chair, I have to wear a mask. Ha!

I’ve been to my dentist during COVID, and had no problems. What bothered me was the protocol for getting my appointment. After the umpteenth question, I said, “Look, if you don’t want me to come, just say so, and I’ll reschedule for a later date.” But actually, they were anxious to have me, since so many others have canceled out of COVID concerns. However, they seem to be compelled to “put you through the wringer” to be certain you aren’t infected. Ironically, I had been to a routine doctor’s appointment that same day without anything similar. I found the dentist’s procedure more than off-putting. They made me sit in my car until they called me in. They took my temperature on my forehead, which was over 100. I said, “You made me sit in my car for ten minutes, and the sun has been beating on my forehead.” So they let me go on back anyway. What’s the purpose of taking my temperature if I can go on in no matter what it reads? Duh.