As a Christian, are you more pragmatic or compassionate?
Judas Iscariot, one of his disciples (the one who was about to betray him) said, “Why was this perfume not sold for three hundred denarii and the money given to the poor?” He said this not because he cared… John 12:4-6.
Characters in the Bible sometimes represent humanity as a whole and nature itself. Each operates from a belief (or drive) that certain actions are good in so far as they are useful. Behaviors are designed to maximize the utility of resources while protecting the rights of individuals. An overarching goal is improvement of the health and safety of a society, the colony, or the species.
The church and government try to respond to social issues and address concerns with wisdom and compassion (or not). As an example, the idea of legalized gambling appealed to states because it would gather revenue for schools, and a portion of lottery ticket sales serve senior citizens. Is that any different than Judas wanting to sell Mary’s perfume and give the money to the poor? The cynical question John’s author wants to ask may be the same, “Would they ever see the benefits?”
Food for thought
Where do you stand on the decision to decriminalize and/or legalize marijuana? Why? As a Christian, are you more pragmatic or compassionate? Why? How do you justify your belief? Talk to your neighbor about it, or email your leaders with your thoughts.
