Every Good Friday, I quote St Paul (?) on this issue of Faith – faith as Christians must cling to. Or accept willingly. But I try to immerse myself in other Christian concepts inherent in the Easter saga of the Passion, the crucifixion and the Resurrection. I suppose I still retain vestiges of interest in the theology of the Christian faith, having gone to numerous churches in the Bourda/Alberttown area of my youth, as well as being “Christened” at St Sidwell’s. Alas, along life’s way I refused to accept just the fellowship of church gatherings, the mere believing what Pastors preached and the unconvincing explanations of Who or What God really is.
Ten years ago Roman Catholic Father Keith Hardless had cause to upbraid me for my written remarks on the Birth of Jesus Christ. I have not changed much Father. Even though you assured me that “Faith is a Gift from God given freely”. Father, as many “Fathers” do, went on to advise about “Those who have received it and believe…”
Well Reverend, friends and theologians – and Believers, even as I grapple with my still-favourite definition of Faith being “The substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen…”, I look around this country and this world and understand the dilemma of faith and belief experienced by the Apostle St Paul.
Thomas’ right to doubt
Recall that I share the view that, on global evidence which abound all around, Satan has gained the upper hand over the Christian God’s righteousness. How else can the most devout Christian explain the Devil’s proliferation of crime, disease, natural and man-made disasters, wars, poverty, starvation and death?
Now, Thomas was one of the twelve Apostles – or disciples – chosen by Jesus Christ (God made man as the Son), mainly from the Galilee area, to do his work of winning or converting souls to God’s way. Judas and St Peter have been somewhat vilified throughout these last 2009 years, but research is slowly uncovering the facts that they were not nearly as bad as some Biblical accounts suggest. The writings, research and new discoveries – by Christians themselves – are, at the minimum, casting doubt on what was once regarded as “Gospel truths”.
So too with St Thomas – the twin, or Didymus. Thanks to St Tom, Jesus had to expound on His relationship with His Father. This was at the Last Supper before heading to His eventual death. But, of course, Tom is best remembered as the Apostle who dared to doubt that it was Jesus who actually appeared to them after being crucified and resurrected.
Said St Tom: “Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails and put my finger into his side I will not believe!” Eight days later the “Risen” Jesus appeared again and gently rebuked Thomas: “Because Thou has seen me Thomas, Thou now believe. Blessed are those that have not seen and have believed…” Jesus had by then allowed Thomas to feel his wounds. Tom later repented and allegedly went as far as India/Afghanistan to preach the Word, dying some time as a Christian Martyr.
If you believe in your Christ’s forgiveness, you have to believe that he at least, understood St Thomas’ doubts. I too have a right to my doubts. You pray for my enlightenment.
The intellectuals, the masses
Linden’s Frank Fyffe raised the issue when he wondered why Forbes Burnham’s intellectual and gifted academics, who served him faithfully, (they would say they served Guyana), did not object to his excesses, his autocracy.
I state here, however belatedly, that, despite a responsive Stabroek editorial (March 27, 2009) which sought to counter Mr Fyffe’s views, that I support his position, with one major consideration however. Frank was concerned that eminent personalities served Burnham whilst, under him, the country was experiencing “many unwholesome happenings, disturbing events, injustices, etc.” He went on to wonder whether their “intellect” should not have been “expanded” towards the service, protection and upliftment of the people”.
During those times, especially mid/late-seventies, I was morally – and financially – weak. But as a PNC member and public servant, I used to wonder why some brilliant minds remained to serve Burnham and Hoyte. I gave myself their answers. Including the one which runs like this: “We stay and serve at these highest levels because it is in the national interest. (At least we are not running away…)”
Well if they had hoped for the best from their efforts, they’ll probably point to complex reasons for eventual national failure. And they remained secure whilst the mass of the working class suffered. The thing to do was to oppose dictatorship from within! There were other leaders and administrations under which their services could have been retained. Who and which?
I do believe that “the masses” must be complemented by a middle-class of thinkers and achievers who had opportunities to study and graduate in certain disciplines. Society needs intellectuals. But their efforts must, eventually, serve all society.
Easter Musings
*1) UNAMCO’S Hamley Case makes a strong case of discrimination against Government and its Forestry Commission. Any responses? Or just the usual arrogant, contemptuous silence? Prove me wrong government. Please.
*2) Reverend Faye Clarke says you must forgive even the savage murder of children. Because God listens only to those with a forgiving, contrite heart.
My friend says give the murderer of babies the justice of Death. Then you in turn can seek God’s forgiveness. Discuss.
*3) Mr Rockcliffe enjoins Christians to Rejoice today, as Prophecy was fulfilled. For God so loved the world … no mourning tears, no mournful dirges, blacks, purples and greys. After all the Crucifixion is about God’s love and life ever after – A Good Friday, remember.
*4) Next Friday: Americana-Guyana.
*5) Catch the Guyana Cook-Up Show on CNS TV 6 – tomorrow morning Saturday and Easter Monday morning at 8.
’Til next week!
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