A Truly 'Good' Friday

[NanceGreggs]

A Truly “Good” Friday
By Nancy Greggs

In keeping with the thoughts that should be uppermost in so many minds today, one wonders how much better our nation would be if only:

If those who espoused peace were more revered than those who promoted war.

If those who loved someone of the same sex were celebrated for their capacity to love, rather than being shunned for it.

If those who were willing to extend the olive branch were admired, rather than scorned as befriending the enemy.

If those who were anxious to listen were not drowned out by those who have their ears closed to any voice other than their own.

If those who showed understanding of the plight of any people in need were hailed as compassionate, and not labeled as weak.

If those who respected the religious beliefs of others were commended for their understanding, and not condemned as enemy sympathizers.

If those who seek the truth were praised for their efforts, rather than dismissed as trouble-makers.

If those who have lied to their nation would admit their deceit, and finally speak the truth.

If those who have tortured would acknowledge their crimes against God and humanity, and strive to be more humane.

If those who have closed their hearts to what is right would open them to all who seek justice, without regard to political considerations.

If those who have used the pulpit to mislead their flock would denounce their own hypocrisy, and become true shepherds.

If those who have stolen from their fellow citizens would seek to make retribution.

If those who have offended through their pride and arrogance would humble themselves and ask forgiveness.

If those who have accumulated wealth due to the labor of others would share their largesse with those who have nothing.

If those who called themselves Christians actually acted in accordance with Christ’s teachings.

Even if these things only happened this one day a year, imagine the difference it would make in our country. If these things happened as a matter of course, imagine what it difference it would make in the world.

I am not a Christian, and yet I am moved by the words of a man who taught tolerance, acceptance, love and charity over two thousand years ago.

I can’t help but wonder why those who purport to adhere to his words are so intent on ignoring his example.

[blondie58]

1. well said, Nance

and have a great Easter weekend.

If only this rant could come to fruition- what a wonderful world it would be.

[karlrschneider]

2. Well (cue Reagan sotto voce) there you go again

making rational comments.

I'm not a Christian either but I agree with the reported teachings of Jesus...so what exactly where do I sit on the religious spectrum? Beats the shit outta me. :eyes:

You da best, nance. :D

[Radio_Lady]

3. Hi, Nance. I wondered if you ever saw those pictures my father painted.

I PMed you months ago, and you surely did bring back some memories for me.

Thanks for your amazing writings.

K & R and Happy Easter or whatever you celebrate!

In peace,

Radio Lady Ellen in Oregon

[babylonsister]

4. Be still, my heart. Wise words, again, from someone who knows how

to express them, and says the same things I believe. Thank you, Nance. :hug:

[SusanaMontana41]

5. Powerful

as usual. Think I'll re-read this Sunday morning.

Thanks.

[Booster]

6. Amen, Sista. Copied and sent to all my friends who love the way

you write.

[Cabcere]

7. It always amazes me

that those who crow the loudest about being "Christians" are usually those who can quote chapter and verse about why exactly homosexuality is immoral, and yet seem to completely ignore the overarching concept/theme of "love thy neighbor." :shrug: Maybe I'm wrong, and maybe it is all in the details, but it seems to me that if you try to live by the basic concepts of love and compassion that Jesus taught (at least, as I remember it from growing up in the United Methodist Church), then the rest will fall into place. :shrug: Anyway, excellent post as always Nance, and a big K&R for you. :)

[NanceGreggs]

9. There it is in a nutshell ...

"It seems to me that if you try to live by the basic concepts of love and compassion that Jesus taught ... the rest will fall into place."

Well said.

[Cabcere]

10. Coming from you...

...that means a lot. :hug: Thanks!

[JohnnyLib2]

8. Recommended. And being sent to two young atheist friends,

who "seek the truth." This piece will provoke much thought. Thank you!

[durtee librul]

11. Just sent this to a former Pastor of mine

who thinks 'queers' shouldn't be allowed in church as they are an abomination in the Lord's eyes...

who thinks abortion is murder, but won't support a home for unwed mothers in his community as they are all whores who have no place in heaven.......

who only reads parts of biblical verses and then 'interprets' them as he sees fit....when I asked him what about the verse, "judge not lest ye be judged" he shuts up and says I am not fit to discuss the Bible with him. Better yet, I compared him to the Pharisees in the temple who Jesus tossed out on their sorry asses and asked him to explain the difference between him and them.

and finally, who thinks George Bush is a noble and fine man as he is such a god fearing christian.

Notice I said former pastor......nut he still has a large following of rightwing nutballs.

[Irishonly]

12. If Only

Wise words that make you look into your soul. I have been taught my whole life to try to live my life more Christlike. The Christians you refer to are known to us so-called liberal Christians as ones who have sullied Christ's image. DOCS and the UCC denominations are sometimes told by "Christians" that we are not because our agenda is not one of imposing some TV evangelicals distorted sense of morality on others. I always cringe when I read pieces about Christians. My first impulse is to protest loudly and say we are not all like that but then I have to look inward and come to terms that although I try to live more Christlike, I come short many times.