OSTEEN'S FUTURE Now that longtime favorite Billy Graham is hanging up the title, there is quite a semi-rough and tumble controversy going on as to who will be come our next national "chaplain" or "favorite evangelist", or whatever unofficial title you feel is comfortable.
We are on the edge of prime national snit if the "None At All" factions get their bladders all a -bubble and refuse to allow even a quasi-official association of religious guidance being associated in any way with our government. It cannot be denied that the Reverend Billy Graham has for many years, through various administrations, been a profound influence on our leadership. I have always been assured of its positive, enduring and worthwhile values and rather pleased and puzzled, as well, to see that other faiths and protestant denominations could concede, one might put it, that Graham's Presbyterian and Calvinistic background - a provocative mix in itself - was generally acceptable. They did not take overt exceptions to any denominational views or historical accounts mar the relationship of church and state.
How is it that when we keep those two words - "church" and "state" - in lower case lettering no one gets excited. But if the first letter are printed as "caps" - wow! - the feathers hit the fan and a real storm blows up!
The determination of who will be our new, national religion rouser You have seen the polls. Vote for your favorite. Mine is Joel Osteen.
I have just finished reading his latest book: "Your Best Life Now". It is a fresh, vibrant and very readable book centered, as one might expect, on the more cheerful aspects of the Christian life style. He enlarges on seven basic steps by which we can gain full control of our lives and realize our full potential.
The book has been on the New York "Times" Best Sellers list for weeks. That is a recommendation in itself but not so monumental when you stop think about it. At best "best seller" means one-per cent of American have purchased a copy of the book. That's fine. It's a good start and generally taken to be a good sign of enduring quality of publication. Get a copy. Read it.
Watch the wavering list. Your choice may be more difficult than you think it might be. There's a raft of impressive talent out there this time around, too. It is International this year, as well. In the latest poll I have seen the Rev. Franklin Graham, Billy Graham's son, has been running as the leading favorite and notice who is gaining on him in tally-after-tally? Right! My favorite - Joel Osteen.
Make your choice and let your it be known. Stress why you think one might be better for the nation over all others.
A.L.M. July 12, 2005 [c472wds]
