That ain't what the Bible says
Lonnie Haack’s recent letters (Feb. 22 and April 11, Leader) contain opinion and conclusions that are questionable. What is the difference between facts and opinions?
“Opinion (and I quote from a Webster’s Dictionary) is belief not based on absolute certainty” vs. “fact: a thing that has actually happened or that is really true.” And what about science? It is “systemized knowledge derived from observation, study and experimentation.”
Being a person of faith myself, I understand and can agree with some of Lonnie’s opinions. However, I think that current Christian pro-life opinions are misguided. Pro-life should go beyond arguments about human reproduction, fetal viability and the definition of a human being. In my opinion, all life was created by God and includes not only humans, but all flora and fauna on Earth.
As human understanding of life increases, our attitudes change. When the massive extinction of dinosaurs occurred or when civilizations collapse, we humans set about searching for cause and effect. We’ve lived through Ice Ages, floods and warm climates. We’ve studied their impacts to life on Earth. Denying science does nothing to change those events.
Being a Christian ought not rule out taking measures to mitigate global warming by reducing greenhouse gases, recycling, cutting waste and pollution or pursuing green energy. Creation Care shows respect for life and the Earth God made.
There have been and are Christian scientists and those in government researching and funding cures for disease, droughts, famine, poverty, and the many challenges facing the survival of humanity. It’s not a plot to take away your freedom.
It’s stunning that we Christians judge others based on our opinions. On the one hand, we lead others to Christ though the Sinners Prayer, then measure their faith by our own preferences for political parties, liberal or conservative values, or presidential candidates. It is as if each party is an exclusive club – and you are excluded if you don’t adhere to that party’s leaders or platform.
Before the primary election in Iowa, Judy Woodruff held a focus group of Republican voters that was broadcast on PBS TV. All 12 of those voters agreed that a Democrat could not be Christian. That ain’t what the Bible says!
– Suzanne Marshall
Polson