TRIAL BY TROUBLE I saw a program on TV recently which set forth the idea that all of the many troubles of life are best seen as being the means by which God tests us.
Isn't that a bit too simplistic?
I can agree that, in a very,limited way I can understand how it may be that we are,from time to time, presented with problems which are brought upon us by our faulty judgments or as a consequence of our past poor management.
To me, such a claim is a "cop out" and little more.
One "trouble" which was mentioned was that we are along our gulf coast experiencing horrible living conditions among millions of people who have lost everything they owned or used and, in some case,doubtless - mis-used. Can I be charged of being heartless and cruel when I fail to accept the proffered idea that their condition is my fault because I did not care for them in the past? Am I,now, to accept the burden of the past errors? Am I to lead they to a better life?
I see the suggestion as being one which, even though it is made to appear as a religious or social when it is so grossly political in every way. Yet, when I heard the idea expressed, it came me from a political one to a religious one. It was suggested "we" Leo obligated to take up such burdens not in a sense of doing good of anyone in need, but out of past wrongs done to them.
The evangelist type of wide-mouthed - narrow-brained person who makes this kind of accusation under whatever association's weird banner is doing a gross dis-service to both his country and his God.
A.L.M. April 9, 2006 [c307wds]
