By Staff
April 11, 2004
An angel sat by an empty tomb one day and told two women there was hope for a new life. The message: It's never too late to begin again.
That basic message has underpinned most organized religions since the Resurrection of Jesus, when the twin principles of forgiveness and redemption became the coin of the faithful's realm. Today, as in most of history, religious fervor carries some odd baggage reverent and respectful, violent and disrespectful. All in the name of God or another Supreme Being.
On this Easter Sunday 2004, maybe it's time for all of us to assess the angels and demons that naturally populate life and decide which will be our personal guide. Will we follow angels, demonstrating faith, goodness and common courtesy even while disagreeing on important social issues; or, will we fall to the temptation of demons, demeaning and insulting each other, sticking the proverbial knives into the backs of political opponents and others with whom we differ.
There is something hypocritical about lying, cheating and stealing during the week and then going to church on Sunday pretending as if the rest of the week just didn't happen. The point of religious faith, after all, is to live a better life, to treat each other as we would like to be treated and to follow as closely as humanly possible the teachings of the Ten Commandments.
We encourage readers on this Easter Sunday to try to find a little peace and quiet, reflect on their own personal hopes and dreams, and think seriously of how their lives fit into the life of this community; and of how, together, we can build a brighter future.
Philosophers believe life is a journey that eventually will take us home. The road is winding and detours are tempting, but if we choose to follow angels, we may very well find the confidence we need to successfully complete the journey.
Happy Easter.