Tony Snow: ‘The Second War In This Country’ Is ‘The War On God’
Tony Snow: ‘The Second War In This Country’ Is ‘The War On God’
Former White House press secretary Tony Snow is apparently attempting to remake himself into the image of Bill O’Reilly. In a series of recent public events, Snow has adopted the mantle of the right-wing’s perceived “secular-progressive” war on conservatives.
Last Friday in an address to the Academy of Leadership & Liberty at Oklahoma Christian University, former White House Press Secretary Tony Snow launched a rhetorical broadside against college faculties in America and mourned this nation’s “war on God.” Oklahoma City Friday reports:
The winsome and articulate Snow charmed his audience with wit:
“The average Iranian is more Pro-American than virtually any college faculty in this country.” And with serious talk about the war on terror and “the second war in this country, the war on God.” […]
Snow also said he loved being on a stage where he could say the word “God.”
So calamitous is this “war on God” that Tony Snow never once mentioned it from the White House podium when he served as Bush’s press secretary. The “war on God” is no more real than the right-wing’s perceived “war on Easter” and the “war on Christmas.”
Appearing on the O’Reilly Factor last Thursday, Tony Snow endorsed Bill O’Reilly’s purported war on Christmas:
I don’t think they’re going to beat Jesus. … You’ve mentioned the fact that you’re not allowed to have Christ at Christmas. I mean, I went to a Christmas store this week. It didn’t have anything about Jesus. It had all sorts of funny little ornaments in it, but nothing about the holiday. People are tired of that.
Being a phony champion for purported social conservative causes appears to be Tony Snow’s remedy for resuscitating his image following the Bush years.
Sort Comments By: Top Rated | Date
Oh, yuck. How freakin’ gagworthy is that???
December 17th, 2007 at 11:05 amBillo must be grooming a replacement!
BOTH need to go on trial…. what losers..
December 17th, 2007 at 11:06 amYes, Tony–you guys have done a fantastic job fighting against everything Christ stood for. I’m sure he’s very proud. But at least you won the War on Christmas.
December 17th, 2007 at 11:07 amTony:
You’d better hope that none of the waterboarded gets to Jesus before you do.
December 17th, 2007 at 11:07 amI’m dreaming of a right Christmas
December 17th, 2007 at 11:07 amJust like the ones that used to be
Please have Snow and missle-toe
And pundits on their knees.
CNN just announced Lieberman’s endorsement of McCain for President.
December 17th, 2007 at 11:08 am“The average Iranian is more Pro-American than virtually any college faculty in this country.â€
So, why isn’t BushCo planning to bomb the US colleges instead of Iran?
December 17th, 2007 at 11:09 amI think “God” is supposed to be omnipotent enough to withstand the verbal slings and arrows from the flock he created.
December 17th, 2007 at 11:10 amI don’t know about your God, Tony, but my God is doing just fine and doesn’t really need any help defending him/herself from imagined attacks.
December 17th, 2007 at 11:11 am“I mean, I went to a Christmas store this week. It didn’t have anything about Jesus.”
You mean, we’ve been fighting for them over there and they are STILL worshiping money over here? Damn corporatists.
December 17th, 2007 at 11:12 amA war on God would seem to be a part of His strategy, since He also supposedly created secularism, to test Christians’ faith. So Tony, thanks for letting the divine cat out of the bag. God will reward your loose lips - with eternal hellfire!
December 17th, 2007 at 11:14 amHe’s been a spokesman for the most corrupt, immoral and un-Christian administration this country has ever seen. I guess he should know.
December 17th, 2007 at 11:15 amRepublicans have been trashing Jesus for a very long time. And they think allowing Christmas trees in Bank lobbies and federal buildings will fix that.
December 17th, 2007 at 11:16 amAhhh, good o’le OCU, the Harvard of North Central Oklahoma county.
/snark off
December 17th, 2007 at 11:16 amI think “God†is supposed to be omnipotent enough to withstand the verbal slings and arrows from the flock he created.
Comment by Badmoodman — December 17, 2007 @ 11:10 am
It’s my belief the “God” is greater than the sum of everything that has ever been written/said about “God”.
It’s the mere mortal that continues to find causes to fight for and/or against in “God’s” name. This push has gone on since a second thought of “God” came into existence.
December 17th, 2007 at 11:17 amWe shouldn’t really worry about the Right Wings perceived war on God,they have yet to successfully manage any war in the last 7 years.
December 17th, 2007 at 11:17 amAlso a note to Tony Snow,ya had no credibility when at the White House and ya certainly have even less now.Stay at home and be with the family more like you lied to us about as your reason for leaving.
Why doesn’t O’Reilly have a big “Christmas is Jesus’ Birthday” banner on the screen during his entire program, if he’s so worried about other people not promoting Christmas? And do Tony Snow and Billo have giant nativity scenes and signs promoting Jesus and Christmas on their front lawns?
December 17th, 2007 at 11:17 amAh yes, secular progressives, the scourge of the world.
Secular progressives launch preemptive wars that cost 2 trillion dollars, right?
Secular progressives deny poor children healthcare because it costs too much, right?
Secular progressives have presided over taking a record surplus into a record deficit and cutting taxes in a “time of war”, right?
Absolute S H I T E…
December 17th, 2007 at 11:18 amGood heavens, how did “Liberty” get to mean “state-sponsored religion” to these people???
December 17th, 2007 at 11:19 amJust a question,what kind of God needs to be constantly worshiped and praised anyway? Sounds like a very insecure deity to me.
December 17th, 2007 at 11:19 amYou’ve mentioned the fact that you’re not allowed to have Christ at Christmas.
When did this happen?
Oh, thats right, it never did.
Gotta love those right wing “facts”
December 17th, 2007 at 11:20 amSounds like a very insecure deity to me.
Comment by Vanthomas
Maybe they have this idea that Jesus is as aristocrat and flamboyant as Zeus.
December 17th, 2007 at 11:21 amI am a university professor of history, and I resent any implication that college faculty are inherently anti-American. Because academics view everything through a critical, and generally thoughtful, lens that places events in historical and cultural context, conservatives default to the mindless rhetoric that we oppose America. Wrong. I instead recognize that the United States, like any other nation, comprises people capable of error and malice as surely as they are capable of brilliance and valor. We have accomplished great feats as a nation; we have failed and committed outrageous acts as a nation. Neglecting our national failures and shortcomings, as conservatives are wont to do, all but ensures that we will repeat them in some form in the future.
Is it “anti-American” to learn from mistakes in the hope that we make better choices in the future? If so, sign me up. Far better to act from wisdom than reckless, uncritical nationalism.
December 17th, 2007 at 11:22 amTony Snow also predicted that U.S. involvement in Kosovo in 1999 would be a deadlier quagmire than Vietnam (that was back when Clinton was in office, when using our military overseas was always “reckless” and “stretching them too thin”).
December 17th, 2007 at 11:22 amI went to a Christmas store this week. It didn’t have anything about Jesus. It had all sorts of funny little ornaments in it. . . .
- - - -
Well stop going to Christmas stores and buying funny little ornaments than you fu(king dip$hit.
December 17th, 2007 at 11:23 amHas BillO or the Snowman mentioned that in the cute little Barney-video, Laura Bush wished everyone a “Happy Holiday” instead of “Merry Christmas”? How can we good, religious Americans trust a President who is married to such a heathen, liberal, anti-American Jesus hater?
/snark off
December 17th, 2007 at 11:23 amSo, why isn’t BushCo planning to bomb the US colleges instead of Iran?
Comment by PatrioticLiberalChristian — December 17, 2007 @ 11:09 am
How do you know that they don’t have plans?
December 17th, 2007 at 11:24 amNow that’s interesting… So, we need to bomb these Pro-American Iranians again because why?
….
December 17th, 2007 at 11:24 amA “war on God”, no… but there may be something to the perception that there’s a domestic war on Christianity… check out this observational piece from a community college (government-funded) in Minnesota:
http://nc.startribune.com/blogs/kersten/?p=333
This is why separation of church and state needs to be read strictly to keep all forms of overt religious support completely out of politics and government. It’s one thing to allow people freedom of religion. It’s another thing entirely to promote religions, because someone will always be left out or excluded, violating the Constitution.
December 17th, 2007 at 11:28 amHow do you know that they don’t have plans?
Comment by Saint Augustine — December 17, 2007 @ 11:24 am
Touche, er, I mean “nice touch” (can’t sound French can I).
December 17th, 2007 at 11:28 amWhy is it that those purporting to be people of faith are about as far from “god” as one can get?
December 17th, 2007 at 11:28 amFurthermore, should student then start applying at University of Tehran, Tony?
December 17th, 2007 at 11:29 amI am really fed up with the War on Saturnalia. For too long, these christians have usurped our ancient traditional mid-winter holiday, and replaced it with their foolish fairy tale.
Winter Solstice: The Unconquered Sun
The Roman midwinter holiday, Saturnalia, was both a gigantic fair and a festival of the home. Riotous merry-making took place, and the halls of houses were decked with boughs of laurel and evergreen trees. Lamps were kept burning to ward off the spirits of darkness. Schools were closed, the army rested, and no criminals were executed. Friends visited one another, bringing good-luck gifts of fruit, cakes, candles, dolls, jewellery, and incense. Temples were decorated with evergreens symbolizing life’s continuity, and processions of people with masked or blackened faces and fantastic hats danced through the streets.
http://www.shambhala.org/arts/fest/unconquered.html
December 17th, 2007 at 11:29 amSay, God. I know yer up there. And, errrr… word at the bus-stop is
you’re listening. So…
I think now would be as good a time as any, for say…
…a couple of well placed lightning bolts.
In your name of course. You’ll get full credit on this one. You have
our word on that.
What’dya say?
December 17th, 2007 at 11:29 amAcademy of Leadership & Liberty at Oklahoma Christian University
What about the Academy of Toadying, & Fascims at Okie Doke diploma for a prayer mill?
December 17th, 2007 at 11:29 amComment by shoeless — December 17, 2007 @ 11:29 am
Shoeless, Priceless!
December 17th, 2007 at 11:30 amIs it “anti-American†to learn from mistakes in the hope that we make better choices in the future? If so, sign me up. Far better to act from wisdom than reckless, uncritical nationalism.
Comment by Red Pill
I think that Anti-American, just like American are words so savagely prostituted that are becoming empty words (if they had any meaning at all).
To me, they are parts of the propaganda, nobody knows what they OBJECTIVELY mean but they are very useful in order to spread the doctrine.
December 17th, 2007 at 11:30 amSince they won the “war on Christmas” and it is necessary to keep the masses afraid, I guess a war on God will do.
December 17th, 2007 at 11:31 amI am pretty sure the war on God has been waged by those supporting torture, spying, and endless wars.
Thanks for being a propagandist shill Tony.
-GSD
December 17th, 2007 at 11:31 amLOL
Best post of the day…
December 17th, 2007 at 11:32 amso, there’s a war on christianity.
do you need beer goggles to see it?
December 17th, 2007 at 11:32 ami can imagine the mouth breathing trogs shinin’ up their shootin’ irons.
December 17th, 2007 at 11:33 amSnow also said he loved being on a stage where he could say the word “God.â€
Gee, Tony, my pastor was on a stage yesterday and mentioned both God and Jesus a number of times. I didn’t notice any “liberal media” or “liberal faculty” taking him out. How did it go at your church? Or were you out on the political talk show circuit instead so you don’t know?
December 17th, 2007 at 11:34 amA war on xmas would be purely in self-defense
xmas attacks from every angle - every store, tv show, movie, radio station, all spew constant xmas garbage
any war on xmas would be a reaction to the continuous attacks xmas has made on the people of this earth
December 17th, 2007 at 11:36 amWhat is both sad and very frightening is how little America realizes how bad it has gotten here . . . and how much worse it is going to get. The election will come and go and regardless of who wins MAYBE 50% will even vote and those in power will change little. We are neigh unto a police state and the citizens here, for the most part, sit on their collective asses. America has gotten EXACTLY what it deserves with these people.
December 17th, 2007 at 11:37 amGOP goons declaring war on thinking.
December 17th, 2007 at 11:38 amAccording to Pat Robertson, who suggested that Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon’s stroke was the result of Sharon’s policies, Tony Snow must have done something really bad to get cancer.
December 17th, 2007 at 11:39 amThe Reich Wing seems to love these wars against nebulous, ill-defined and at times, imaginary opponents which cannot and will not end.
After all, with regard to the so-called wars on drugs, Easter, Christmas, etc., which armaments will be used against those on the other side, will the Geneva conventions apply, and who is it exactly who would surrender (and would they represent the entirety of the other side), and if this were to occur, what would be the terms of this surrender?
Trolls?
December 17th, 2007 at 11:39 amI don’t know about your God, Tony, but my God is doing just fine and doesn’t really need any help defending him/herself from imagined attacks.
Comment by raynman
But to be fair, Bush has kept us with a God for six years.
December 17th, 2007 at 11:39 amWonder how many of the good Churches of Christ folk at OCU know that Snow’s Catholic, and therefore headed straight for the Lake of Eternal Fire . . .
December 17th, 2007 at 11:39 amX-mess, the near mandatory orgy of gross consumption.
December 17th, 2007 at 11:40 amIf a politician invokes God’s name, then they must surely be doing His work, right?
“…God the Almighty has made our nation. By defending its existence we are defending His work…†— Adolf Hitler, as stated in a radio address on January 30, 1945
December 17th, 2007 at 11:43 amActually if it’s anything it’s the War On The Rule of Law and the War On Reason.
Anyone seem to notice that most if not all of these “War On” things are part of the rightwing agenda?
The War on Terror: Political hammer used to bludgeon opponents
The War on Drugs: Nice excuse to incarcerate huge numbers of black men
The War on Christmas: Pure O’Reilly bullsh!t
The War on Religion: Yawn. Is the world still flat?
The War on Poverty: They don’t seem to talk too much about this one
I think it’s time to think of these “Wars” as nothing more than Republican moneypits.
December 17th, 2007 at 11:44 amTony Snow is adding fuel to the fire. The religious fundamentalists are going to begin in with the Tim McVeigh style domestic terrorist attacks because they have been inflamed and made to believe they are under constant attack.
This will clearly accelerate if the elections in 2008 deliver a serious blow to the GOP.
-GSD
December 17th, 2007 at 11:47 amThis will clearly accelerate if the elections in 2008 deliver a serious blow to the GOP.
-GSD
Comment by GSD — December 17, 2007 @ 11:47 am
BRING IT ON!
December 17th, 2007 at 11:49 amHA! I hate jumping in here a second time with anything regarding these fools BUT will this new headline get the wing-nuts to their pickups??
“Russia Delivers First Shipment of Nuclear Fuel to Iran”
I need to stay off the roads today ’cause the ammo stores will be packed….
December 17th, 2007 at 11:49 amThey don’t just LOVE them, they DEPEND on them to function. Fear is the basic operational building block of the party.
You will ALWAYS have a boogeyman to “fight” against, satan, taxes, terrorists, immigration, it is always framed as a battle of good versus evil.
December 17th, 2007 at 11:49 amJesus - the Original Liberal.
Screw you, Tony.
December 17th, 2007 at 11:49 amYou’d better hope that none of the waterboarded gets to Jesus before you do.
Comment by Marcus Aurelius
Brilliant.
December 17th, 2007 at 11:50 amOh puke!
Is this how these idiots think they’re going to regain the political advantage in this country, w/ this sort of gibberish?
December 17th, 2007 at 11:50 amAll I want for X-mess is a brick of ammo and kevlar vest.
December 17th, 2007 at 11:52 amGod is so happy with Fox News. that four floors of the Fox News headquarters in New York have been evacuated due to a chemical explosion. CNN reports.
December 17th, 2007 at 11:52 amI went to a Christmas store this week. It didn’t have anything about Jesus. It had all sorts of funny little ornaments in it. . . .
Maybe he should have gone to a Jesus store instead…
December 17th, 2007 at 11:52 amWhy isn’t Snow Job out there encouraging people to approach the winter holiday season, not as an extended orgy of excess, but rather one of celebrating the underlying meaning of the season, forgoing shopping, drunken parties, etc., which serve only to distract from the non-commercial meaning of the holiday season?
December 17th, 2007 at 11:52 am“They don’t just LOVE them, they DEPEND on them to function. Fear is the basic operational building block of the party.
You will ALWAYS have a boogeyman to “fight†against, satan, taxes, terrorists, immigration, it is always framed as a battle of good versus evil.”
Yes. Don’t forget that old favorite: “Family values.”
Talk about nebulous.
December 17th, 2007 at 11:52 amWater boarding Jezus nearly as effective as crucifixion.
December 17th, 2007 at 11:53 amSnowflakes, Dildos, O’Really & Christmas…
Can you pick out which one ‘doesn’t belong’?
.
.
.
You’re right. Christmas is mocked including it in that list above.
December 17th, 2007 at 11:54 amPraise be to T Snow for focusing right in on a big reason why we are more and more the laughingstock of the “civilized” world. Bleah.
December 17th, 2007 at 11:55 am“Jesus, Liberal Since 0000!”
December 17th, 2007 at 11:56 amThink how much good intelligence we and Jack Bauer could get if we went back to doing crucifixions. Waterboarding is for nambie pambies.
December 17th, 2007 at 11:56 amHey tony, how about a war against theocracy?
December 17th, 2007 at 11:57 amCancer Boy is looking to see his maker and wants to store up points.
December 17th, 2007 at 11:58 amUh oh… Thunderbolts of lightening, very very frightening, me….
December 17th, 2007 at 11:58 amFoul…
December 17th, 2007 at 11:59 amWhat could be more in keeping with the spirit of the season than to declare war on our fellow human beings?
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.” — Jesus Christ, as stated in Matthew 5:9
December 17th, 2007 at 12:00 pmRepublicans are deliberately stunting the growth of this country and of society in general.
December 17th, 2007 at 12:01 pmWar on God? No. War on the US Constitution and that itty bitty little thing called separation of church and state. Well, yes! 100 years from now people will look back at the early 21st century and will say, “Dang, those people were just plain loco!”
http://13martyrs.blogspot.com/
December 17th, 2007 at 12:02 pmDoes God really need people like Snow and O’Reilly to cover his ass? I was under the impression he was more or less, um, omnipotent.
December 17th, 2007 at 12:03 pmJesus Christ enemy combatant since 0000.
December 17th, 2007 at 12:03 pm“Cancer Boy is looking to see his maker and wants to store up points.”
Comment by Bartolo
What’s that funny-looking bump on your neck? Better see a doctor.
December 17th, 2007 at 12:04 pm“Men never do evil so completely and cheerfully as when they do it from religious conviction.” — Blaise Pascal
December 17th, 2007 at 12:06 pmRepublicans are deliberately stunting the growth of this country and of society in general.
Comment by lefty
Conservatives hate any kind of growth other than economic. It means change, and conservatives want to “conserve” the status quo.
December 17th, 2007 at 12:08 pmHow about a war on cancer. And I don’t mean just more money for drugs and insurance corporations. Carcinogens spread rampantly throughout our lives and enviornment, over processed food, stress and worry.
December 17th, 2007 at 12:09 pmIf warring on Christmas and God equaled huge profits, like in the billions, then Tony and his friends would be all over it. These people all have a price.
December 17th, 2007 at 12:09 pm“the second war in this country, the war on God.â€
DAMN STRAIGHT!
December 17th, 2007 at 12:13 pmnever thought i’d agree with the bastard.
Jesus has not been on talking terms with Tony Snow since he first joined Fox News.
Wait! What’s that? Oh, okay, I’ll tell him.
Tony, that was Jesus. He says, “Stay off my side.”
December 17th, 2007 at 12:13 pmChristmas: MADE IN CHINA by underpaid children w/lead.
December 17th, 2007 at 12:16 pm“I don’t think they’re going to beat Jesus. … You’ve mentioned the fact that you’re not allowed to have Christ at Christmas. I mean, I went to a Christmas store this week. It didn’t have anything about Jesus. It had all sorts of funny little ornaments in it, but nothing about the holiday. People are tired of that.”
Well, Tony, maybe you shouldn’t be looking for Jesus in a store.
Maybe you should look for Jesus, and what he is about at a different place.
Like, oh I don’t know, church? I see and hear quite a bit about Him there.
“Maybe Christmas,” he thought, “doesn’t come from a store.” “Maybe Christmas… perhaps… means a little bit more!”
December 17th, 2007 at 12:17 pmA couple of thoughts for Mr Snow:
1. I wasn’t aware that God picked sides.
December 17th, 2007 at 12:18 pm2. If anyone really wanted to wage war against God, who do you think would be the predetermined winner?
3. Using this theme to wrap your political party in the mantle of God is not very Christian-like behavior.
He’s right. It’s the war on God waged by evangelical Christians who pervert their purported Savior’s message beyond all comprehension.
December 17th, 2007 at 12:18 pmI hate to break this to people who think celebrating Christmas is an American tradition: in the late 18th century during the time our Constitution was written and ratified, it was ILLEGAL to celebrate Christmas in Boston and a number of other large cities and colonies. Don’t believe me? Crack open a history book.
December 17th, 2007 at 12:20 pmWell Tony speaks to 2 of the 14 points of Fascism:
Gandhi said it best, “”I like your Christ, I do not like your Christians. Your Christians are so unlike your Christ.”
Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and Seasons Greetings to all… or as my Grandmother used to say, “Buon Natale e Felice Anno Nuovo”
December 17th, 2007 at 12:21 pmSetting aside my atheism and assuming for the sake of debate that this God guy exists - war on God? Or God gets his war on? Proverbs 6:16-19 indicates that this God guy will not be pleased one bit. Hey Tony - lying is a sin. How will you explain your lying to God?
December 17th, 2007 at 12:24 pmIf god is all-powerful and all-knowing, this “war”, if it exists at all, should be party of his/her plan. What’s the beef, Tony? Don’t you like god’s plans?
December 17th, 2007 at 12:28 pmLooks like Tony’s colostomy bag has backed up again.
December 17th, 2007 at 12:28 pmI went to a Christmas store this week. It didn’t have anything about Jesus. It had all sorts of funny little ornaments in it, but nothing about the holiday.
Umm, Tony–this is for you:
Maybe Christmas, he thought, doesn’t come from a store
Maybe Christmas–perhaps–means a little bit more . . . .
Now, Tony Boy, if you can just get your heart to grow a size or two . . .
December 17th, 2007 at 12:33 pmThe Reverend Tony Snow: “I mean, I went to a Christmas store this week. It didn’t have anything about Jesus.”
Actually, there are a number of Protestant denominations which do not believe in celebrating Christmas at all for a variety of reasons, not the least of which is that this is not the time of year in which Jesus was allegedly born and they recognize that the Romans simply co-opted a traditional festival celebrated by pagans for thousands of years.
December 17th, 2007 at 12:33 pmNice to know that Tony, George, Dick, Mitch and their Neo-Con buddies have nothing better to do than rant about how other people should celebrate Christmas.
Newsflash to Neo-Cons: Global warming will overtake all other crises, including your trumped up nonsense about “Christmas.” Also, you guys started a disastrous war against Iraq and you plan a permanent “enduring” US presence there. And you worry about a holiday??
December 17th, 2007 at 12:34 pma couple more thoughts for Mr Snow:
4. Since when did waging preemptive war on a nation and lying to those whom you serve to provide justification become God’s work?
5. What of the families in Iraq his holiday season? Think they are facing any real danger and persecution these days?
6. Why, at the height of political power for Christianity in this country, have so many leaders chosen to focus their attention on their current supposed persecution?
December 17th, 2007 at 12:40 pmYup, the war on God.
The sad thing is, the ones that are shouting about it, the right-wing NUTJOBS,
are the ones who ARE at WAR with God.
They are LIARS, MURDERERS and Blasphemers, all LIEING and KILLING in the NAME of God and Jesus.
God SEES the EVIL of “men” like Bush and Snow.
No matter how much they LIE, God KNOWS the EVIL they have done.
Sincerely,
NRA Gun Nutes
December 17th, 2007 at 12:47 pmHe says GOD but helps the Nietzsche GOP in its Gott Ist Tot and eternal war policy.
You are not fooling me. Jesus was NEVER for empire and he was never for eternal war and the Christians of his day were secular and accepted people from all places.
December 17th, 2007 at 12:52 pmReich-wingers, the party of hate, immorality, and innate whining.
December 17th, 2007 at 12:52 pmSnow is glad to be on a stage where only English is acceptable speak.
December 17th, 2007 at 12:54 pmAllah (Arabic: الله, AllÄh) is the standard Arabic word for “God”.
Newsflash Tony, it was the Romans that celebrated ‘Sol Invictus’ [invincible sun] on December 25. And it was because Christians are secular and because Jesus was trying to create a universal religion that included all people. He did not denigrate or hate those that did not believe in GOD.
December 17th, 2007 at 12:54 pmActually if it’s anything it’s the War On The Rule of Law and the War On Reason.
Anyone seem to notice that most if not all of these “War On†things are part of the rightwing agenda?
The War on Terror: Political hammer used to bludgeon opponents
The War on Drugs: Nice excuse to incarcerate huge numbers of black men
The War on Christmas: Pure O’Reilly bullsh!t
The War on Religion: Yawn. Is the world still flat?
The War on Poverty: They don’t seem to talk too much about this one
I think it’s time to think of these “Wars†as nothing more than Republican moneypits.
Comment by lefty
What we really need is a War on War.
December 17th, 2007 at 12:56 pm“I don’t think they’re going to beat Jesus. … You’ve mentioned the fact that you’re not allowed to have Christ at Christmas. I mean, I went to a Christmas store this week. It didn’t have anything about Jesus. It had all sorts of funny little ornaments in it, but nothing about the holiday. People are tired of that.”
So, Tony Baloney is up in arms because Jesus isn’t being used in advertising/promotional material???
People, are you tired of Jesus not being used to sell products? Jesus, are you upset that you’re missing out on a gravy train of endorsement deals?
There’s a disgusting undercurrent in the Christian community, that condones the use of Christian symbols for the purpose of commerce and advertising. I see landscapers, nail salons, and plumbers in my area that have no shame about making Jesus into a GEICO lizard in order to promote themselves. The merger of naked greed and religious fervor is about as creepy a thing as I’ve ever witnessed, and you can be damned sure it’s not smiled upon from on high.
December 17th, 2007 at 12:57 pm“You’ve mentioned the fact that you’re not allowed to have Christ at Christmas. I mean, I went to a Christmas store this week. It didn’t have anything about Jesus.” — Tony Snow, on Bill O’Reilly’s show
——————————————–
While Tony didn’t say so, the implication seems to be is that both he and Bill blame the “godless liberals” for taking Christ out of Christmas. It’s so handy to have us around to blame for whatever the manufactured outrage du jour is.
However, the erosion of Christ isn’t due to us. There have been a few publicized cases of activist groups not wanting nativity scenes paid for with taxpayer money, but that’s not why Tony can’t find baby Jesus ornaments at his Christmas store.
The truth is that Jesus doesn’t sell as well as Santa, reindeer, Christmas trees, and snowmen. And this is commercial (mostly conservative) interests driving this — not liberals.
Take a look around at the holiday decorations in your neighborhood. How many nativity scenes? Compared to Santa scenes? And snowman scenes?
Turn on your 24/7 all holiday music radio station (there’s at least one in most markets). How many of the songs mention Jesus at all? There are a few, but they are far outnumbered by holiday songs of a more secular nature. Liberals aren’t the ones making those playlists.
And how about all those holiday specials and movies we see on television this time of year? The only one that comes to mind that mentions anything about the nativity at all is “A Charlie Brown Christmas” (and Charles Schulz had to fight for that). All of the other major ones look at Christmas from a secular point of view. These weren’t ALL done by liberals.
And then there’s retail. Do Bill and Tony really think it’s liberals who are forcing stores to decorate, advertise, and sell their goods with no reference to Jesus? Pure nonsense. Stores are going to do whatever it takes to make their bottom line look as good as possible.
Nope — not us on this one. Blame big business, blame greed, blame crass commercialism, blame the almighty dollar. As long as there’s money to be made, the baby Jesus will be taking a back seat.
December 17th, 2007 at 12:58 pmI mean, I went to a Christmas store this week. It didn’t have anything about Jesus.
Since when does a store care about Jesus? Christmas is, and always has been, a commerical holiday that exploits the birth of Christ. In fact, Bill-O commercially exploits the birth of Jesus on a yearly basis.
December 17th, 2007 at 1:00 pm…this is not the time of year in which Jesus was allegedly born and they recognize that the Romans simply co-opted a traditional festival celebrated by pagans for thousands of years.
Comment by Ret. Col. Jack Ripper
Hey, are you attacking Saturnalia? THIS MEANS WAR!!!
December 17th, 2007 at 1:00 pmThere’s a disgusting undercurrent in the Christian community, that condones the use of Christian symbols for the purpose of commerce and advertising. -TBaker
Those are Mammonists whose false Lord is materialism and greed, bias and war.
December 17th, 2007 at 1:02 pmThose are Mammonists whose false Lord is materialism and greed, bias and war.
Comment by Xisithrus
Oh, I thought those people were called Republicans.
December 17th, 2007 at 1:05 pmCan’t have a War on something that does not exist.
I like your Jesus, it’s his followers that I have a problem with.
Bush/Cheney/Snow
Hague Trials ‘09
Buck Fush
December 17th, 2007 at 1:05 pmTony thinks you can buy Jesus in a store. I’m an atheist, and even I know the teachings of Jesus come from the heart. I don’t know how much money Tony made for the speaking engagement, but according to Jesus, his time would have been better spent tending to the needy.
December 17th, 2007 at 1:06 pm“I went to a Christmas store this week. It didn’t have anything about Jesus.”
-Hey Tony, here is another helpful tip for ya’ … don’t go to a hardware store to buy milk.
December 17th, 2007 at 1:06 pmI mean, I went to a Christmas store this week. It didn’t have anything about Jesus. -Tony Snow
Thats called capitalism and free-markets Tony, something you and the fools at FOX constantly push. Wake up Tony. Your trying to blame the lack of Jesus on others when YOU are one of the primary backers for the people that profit from it.
December 17th, 2007 at 1:06 pmThe first thing is taught in most religions…’Quit lying..’
December 17th, 2007 at 1:09 pmI like your Jesus, it’s his followers that I have a problem with.
Comment by Buckie Boy
This is the time of year when everyone should read Al Frankin’s The Gospel of Supply Side Jesus
December 17th, 2007 at 1:09 pmI’ll stop my war on Xmas when they stop their war on the Constitution.
December 17th, 2007 at 1:10 pmLOL. Exactly…
Who handles Jesus’ licensing, I wonder? Vatican? 20 points?
These are the things that make you go hmmm.
December 17th, 2007 at 1:18 pmTonny Snow, get a crucifix and shuv it up your arse!
December 17th, 2007 at 1:22 pmShoeless: “Hey, are you attacking Saturnalia? THIS MEANS WAR!!!”
Hilarious. Yes, I’m attacking Saturnalia AND Festivus. And, let’s throw in the Return of the Light for good measure.
And, Franken’s “Supply Side Jesus” is perfect satire!
December 17th, 2007 at 1:23 pmGet a Christamns tree and sit on it Tony Snow!
December 17th, 2007 at 1:23 pmWhat does Jesus have to do with massive spending on things people really don’t need? Snow is such an idiot!! These Christian crybabies act like Christians are being killed en masse, ala ancient Rome. Get Real!!
December 17th, 2007 at 1:34 pmYou’ve mentioned the fact that you’re not allowed to have Saturn at Saturnalia. I mean, I went to a Saturn store this week. It had all sorts of funny little cars in it, but nothing about the holiday. People are tired of that.
December 17th, 2007 at 1:37 pm…” I mean, I went to a Christmas store this week. It didn’t have anything about Jesus”…”It had all sort of little ornaments in it,but nothing ..about the holidays”…
Like What?
Go to church…
December 17th, 2007 at 1:41 pmThe name Christmas, is ironic. The trappings of Christmas are historically pagan. The partying (feasting), drinking, merry making, caroling, the lights, evergreen boughs, etc. where all elements of pagan festivities celebrating the winter solstice. Romans, those people who loved to offer Christians for sport, tagged on a religious birth in the 4th century A.D. to the merry-making. And what does a Santa Claus have to do with the birth of Jesus?For good reasons, the Protestants of Old England once banned Christmas as a holiday. If Jesus is so powerfully important to Snow and others, then let the day honoring his birth stand on its own - as a non-pagan holiday. See how many takers you have for take proposition.
December 17th, 2007 at 1:45 pmLot’s of Jesus gifts at this site, this one just for Tony:
http://www.misspoppy.com/ catalog/ xcart/ customer/ product.php?productid=16315
December 17th, 2007 at 2:34 pmWhy do “Christians” try to push their beliefs down everyone’s throat? If there is an afterlife, do they really think there is only one door to get in? Good grief !
December 17th, 2007 at 2:36 pmI just don’t get it. Founding fathers had no problem beleiving and following their faith, althewhile recognizing everyone has the right to believe in their own version of religion. With me so far? Then why is it that EVERY politician feels it their civic duty to convert the dirty masses to their own version? The public has to bear the burden of responsibility on this, too. For, if it weren’t for those that elected them, we wouldn’t have to hear this sh!t spew from their corrupt little cakeholes.
To summarize, I don’t give a hoot what the politicians feel is acceptable when it comes to religion, just as I don’t care what the casual bystander thinks, either. On the flip side of that coin, I don’t expect anyone else to agree with my views, either. I don’t need their validation.
This brings to mind a bad dog that is attention starved. It’s gonna do some stupid shite to garner attention, and it only gets worse when you acknowledge those bad deeds. The only attention these bad dogs need is in the form of getting them out of office (regardless of political affiliation).
December 17th, 2007 at 2:43 pm“I mean, I went to a Christmas store this week. It didn’t have anything about Jesus.”
What??? Shopping-Christmas-Jesus???
What does shopping have to do with Jesus???????? (I think Jesus wouldn’t be too happy about that)
Sounds like another phony war.
Brought to you by those who believe in “culture” wars what ever that means!!!!!!!!
December 17th, 2007 at 3:15 pmLittle did I know that the entrance fee to the afterlife was the purchase of a nativity scene from Home Depot.
December 17th, 2007 at 3:42 pmThe minimum amount you are allowed to spend each Xmas and still qualify for the afterlife in th sky is one month’s take home pay.
December 17th, 2007 at 3:45 pmBrought to you by those who believe in “culture†wars what ever that means!!!!!!!!
Comment by squidbilly
It means a War Against Culture, of course.
December 17th, 2007 at 4:14 pmNot the vatican, probably. Most of these fundies don’t think cathiolics and other christian sects (ask romney) are really christian.
The christofscist two-step:
1. Get Amer’ca declared an officially christian nation
2. Start narrowing the definition of ‘real’ christians
December 17th, 2007 at 4:28 pmShoeless, Amen!
Omar Bradley (February 12, 1893 – April 8, 1981) was one of the main U.S. Army field commanders in North Africa and Europe during the World War II and a General of the United States Army. In an unknown speech, he made one of the most profound statements a professional soldier could make. “Ours is a world of nuclear giants and ethical infants. We know more about war than about peace, more about killing than we know about living.â€
A philosopher once said, “Peace is not simply the absence of war. A truly peaceful society is one in which all people can maximize their potential and build fulfilling lives free from threats to their dignity. When ordinary citizens around the globe join hands to call for peace, a solidarity of awakened and empowered individuals can propel humankind toward the twin goals of genuine disarmament and a flourishing culture of peace.”
December 17th, 2007 at 4:43 pmBecause other than creating a name with Christ in it, Christmas has nothing to do with Jesus. The celebration of the Winter solstice is a Pagan holiday.
December 17th, 2007 at 5:12 pmI honestly just want this man to die. I know that sounds mean because he has a family, and he has cancer and he is soon to leave this earth….
BUT i’m forced to really want him off the Earth because of his willingness to lie and spread fear and hatred to anyone not part of his immediate circle of rich, ugly human beings. He is bad for this planet, his presence here has been demonstrative, and the only good cancer cells in the world are in his body, and I just wish cancer could always be this appropriately selective.
December 18th, 2007 at 4:41 amBecause other than creating a name with Christ in it, Christmas has nothing to do with Jesus. The celebration of the Winter solstice is a Pagan holiday.
Comment by Spudge Boy — December 17, 2007 @ 5:12 pm
Unless, of course, you are a Christian and celebrate Christmas. In that case, the winter solstice and it’s pagan observers mean nothing and Christmas has everything to do with Jesus. ;)
December 18th, 2007 at 9:19 amI just don’t get it. Founding fathers had no problem beleiving and following their faith, althewhile recognizing everyone has the right to believe in their own version of religion. With me so far? Then why is it that EVERY politician feels it their civic duty to convert the dirty masses to their own version?
Comment by Icetrey — December 17, 2007 @ 2:43 pm
The founding fathers also lived in a very religious society. There was no large, vocal atheist population, so they had no reason to believe that Christianity would need to be defended against those who would seek to remove every vestige of it from public life. Quite the contrary, they felt the need to ensure that everyone would be free to worship as they choose. That is why we have the protections that we do. I assure you, no one who has spoken out recently is attempting to convert you. They just want to protect Christianity from being marginalized by those who oppose it and those who seek to make money from it while refusing to acknowledge it. ;)
December 18th, 2007 at 9:40 amRight on Spudge Boy - the holiday this time of year is based on a pagan festival celebrating the winter solstice - little do the indoctrinated realize the irony of the celebration, as they rejoice in it as a supposedly religious event, when all of the activites (tree lighting, hanging ornaments et al) actually being pagan in origin - w00t!
Some people (read: Snow) need a little history lesson…
December 18th, 2007 at 11:16 amThe wingnuts ALWAYS make war on whatever is imaginary.
December 18th, 2007 at 11:25 amWhy wouldn’t they invent a war on god?
After all, they invented the war on Iraq, etc.
Hitler preached a “twisted puritanism” and so do the neocons. It’s part of the neocon plan following one of the ten steps to facism taken directly from the nazi playbook. Google “Ten steps to Facism” and read what Hitler did and what the neocons are doing now.
December 18th, 2007 at 4:13 pm#142, you said, ” The wingnuts ALWAYS make war on whatever is imaginary. Why wouldn’t they invent a war on god? After all, they invented the war on Iraq, etc.”
They DID make a war on god, just not THEIR god. Remember bush saying the invasion of Iraq was a “Crusade?” So, the neocons ARE making war on god!
December 18th, 2007 at 4:24 pmThere is no war on “God,” but there is definitely a war on religion, and it’s being waged by bigoted, intolerant evangelicals who believe they hold the exclusive keys to Heaven. They can’t even get along with other Christians. (They’ve even got that perpetually-furious Donahue guy from the Catholic League angry with them which worries me because, although I don’t care much for the guy, I’m afraid he’s going to have an aneurysm someday on TV.)
They have contempt for anyone who isn’t preborn or reborn. They claim to love the “chosen ones” in Israel, but, aw, shucks, it’s too bad these same “beloved” Jews just aren’t good enough to join them in Heaven unless they convert. The truth is that they love the Israeli real estate. Without this real estate, their biggest hoopla of all — the “Rapture” — simply can’t occur, and what in the world is there to live for if they can’t depend on the death and destruction of the “end times,” hopefully brought about by their Antichrist and Savior, George W. Bush?
They don’t want religious equality in America. They want (and have been receiving for the last seven years now) religious superiority.
If we have freedom FROM religion in politics, we will guarantee freedom OF religion for all.
December 18th, 2007 at 10:13 pmComment by Marmann — December 18, 2007 @ 10:13 pm
You are mistaken in saying only Jews aren’t good enough to go to heaven. It’s not a matter of good enough for any of us. None of us are good enough, so we need a Savior. That includes God’s chosen people. See how equal we all are? We don’t have to concern ourselves with who owns any real estate. We have no control over what will occur, only where we will be in the end. We all have that choice and have only ourselves to blame if we are unhappy with the result. Again, we are all equal; none superior to any other.
December 18th, 2007 at 10:39 pmFortunately the Constitution doesn’t guarantee freedom from religion. That’s another protection for people of faith.
Tony Snow… Why don’t you get a very tall Christmans tree and sit on it?
December 19th, 2007 at 12:49 amComment by upright left — December 18, 2007 @ 10:39 pm
You wrote: “You are mistaken in saying only Jews aren’t good enough to go to heaven.”
I didn’t write that “only Jews” aren’t good enough. I gave evangelicals credit for excluding everyone else who believes differently than them. I pointed out how they can’t even get along with members of other denominations of the Christian faith. But they don’t claim to “love” these Christians as much as they claim to “love” the Jews. I’m sure it’s merely coincidental that they happen to publicly “love” those whose real estate they hope to someday soon usurp as their launching pad when they zoom up to Heaven, waving “buh-bye” to the rest of us immoral losers who just didn’t quite make the Heaven grade.
You might believe that none of us is good enough and that we need a Savior. That is your absolute right, guaranteed by the Constitution, you know, that “[use-God’s-name-in-vain adjective screamed by the Savior in Chief who claims to regularly talk to God] piece of paper.”
I realize I’m just a liberal who allegedly has no moral values, but here’s a snapshot of my life: I don’t lie. I don’t cheat. I feel genuine compassion for my fellow human beings. I especially feel compassion for helpless animals (many of which I feel survive in SPITE of humans and not necessarily because of them). I try to treat others as I would like to be treated. If all I receive in return is contempt, I tend to give what I get. If I receive the message that I will NEVER gain entrance into Heaven and have the privilege of spending eternity with those who describe themselves as being morally superior to me because my spiritual belief doesn’t exactly match theirs, I tend to feel a sense of relief and gratitude. At the moment of my death, if I can look in the mirror and be okay with the person looking back because she’s done the best she could with the tools that God gave her, then that’s all I could possibly want.
Regarding the anxiously anticipated “Rapture,” it just so happens that I was diagnosed with a fatal disease almost three months ago. After repeated attacks and many hospitalizations for sudden chronic pancreatitis over almost two years now, it was finally discovered through genetic testing that I have cystic fibrosis. (I’m 54 years old, so if you walk away with anything from this post, please spread the word that not only children are diagnosed with cystic fibrosis. I had never known that, and I think it’s an important fact that should be publicized more. If you know anyone who is suddenly developing GI problems AT ANY AGE that can’t be explained, please urge them to consider CF as a possibility. It’s not just a respiratory disease, and in fact, the original name for CF was “cystic fibrosis of the pancreas.”) From what I’ve been able to read about this disease, with treatment, I might have five years left. Without treatment two years after onset of symptoms, I simply don’t know. (They did DNA testing during my 6th hospitalization this year without even telling me they were doing it or that they suspected CF, without the courtesy of discussing anything with me or affording me the opportunity to ask questions, and a month after my discharge, out of the blue, I received a four-sentence letter telling me that the DNA testing I had had confirmed cystic fibrosis.) During these last two years, I lost my health insurance (could no longer afford more than $700 a month for it because of all the medical bills incurred that my health insurance WOULDN’T pay), and the nearest cystic fibrosis center is 80 miles away. Since my car was repossessed (because of all of the time spent in the hospital, not working and subsequently not being paid), I have no transportation to drive to the center. In all honesty, I’ve been fighting with this for two years now and am just plain tired, so if it’s my “time” tomorrow, I’m ready. And although I’m ready, I’m not bitter — just tired. I might have a fatal disease, but I’m actually extremely grateful to be 54 years old, since so many children and babies die of this disease. (Enough of THIS rant — sorry).
The point I’m trying to make is that I’m frightened of the people who positively glow at the mere mention of the “Rapture,” and I truly believe there are some people of that particular Christian belief who believe Bush is the only man to bring about the end of the world. Unfortunately, I believe he is the only one, as well. While they may rejoice in this fact, I fear it. The majority of Americans who DON’T share this religious belief don’t deserve to die because of a manmade self-fulfilled prophecy. I’m probably going to die soon, but I don’t feel the need to take the rest of the world with me.
Regarding religion in government, this has run rampant since 2001. The Bush administration hired at least 150 attorneys who managed to squeak through Pat Robertson’s Regent University Law School, an American Tier IV school (the lowest quality you can find). I’ve read where this school is funded by Domino’s Pizza, so I guess if you don’t get your law degree in 30 minutes or less, it’s free. These graduates obviously weren’t hired because of their academic excellence or experience. They were hired because they share Bush’s religious views. In addition, Bush has appointed like-minded religious zealots to very important high-level posts, including one who gets to decide birth control options for American women. These decisions aren’t driven by science; they’re driven by a person who believes in ONE NARROW BRAND of Christianity and wants to force every woman in the nation to also abide by this religious view.
Even the military under the current Savior-in-Chief has been trying to force soldiers to convert to evangelical Christianity. If they resist, they’re shunned. How’s that for supporting the troops? (Although I do concede that without sufficient body armor, armored Humvees and other safety equipment, prayers may be the only things Bush has left these soldiers with).
Also regarding religion in government, I’ve noticed throughout my lifetime, in each and ever town I’ve ever visited in America, there are many, many buildings. These buildings are called churches, temples, mosques, etc. Their purpose is to be a place where people of the same religious beliefs are encouraged to congregate in what I believe they refer to as “congregations” and celebrate their faith. In addition, there are thousands of religious schools throughout the United States. There is no paucity of institutions devoted to promoting religion in America.
I happen to think it’s great that you and I can enjoy the freedom to debate an issue such as this in a public forum. That’s what freedom of religion and freedom of speech allow us to do. I sincerely hope these freedoms continue in America because I never want to live in a theocracy. I want to live in a nation that is proud to be inclusive, rather than exclusive. The bottom line, either way, is that NOBODY has the ability to control someone else’s ability to pray. It’s an act that comes from the heart and soul. (I know this for a fact because it’s mainly how I got through school.)
What annoys me is people like Tony Snow. I see them as being “Holiday Hogs.” One can almost see the smoke emerge from their ears if a stranger should have the unmitigated audacity to wish them “Happy Holidays.” The term “Christmas” has become somewhat of a generic term precisely because of American capitalism, the very thing Bush’s true “base” (the top 1-percenters) worship. It’s become about trees, decorations, cookies, Santa and gifts. It’s the one time of the year when quite a few religions celebrate “something big” around the same time. I’d bet there are even atheists out there who get warm fuzzies whilst sitting in front of a lit fireplace with the only other illumination in the room coming from a beautifully-decorated tree. It’s the one time of the year when America can truly celebrate its Constitutional religious freedom for all people under one umbrella.
If I’m in a store and a stranger strikes up a conversation with me (which, for some reason, happens a lot) and it’s this time of the year, if the person wishes me “Happy Holidays” as we leave each other, I return the same wishes. I don’t find it offensive in the least. In fact, I find it highly respectful because this person has no idea which religious beliefs I might hold, if any, but is extending sincere warm wishes to me, regardless of my beliefs. In my opinion, there is nothing more “Christlike” at this time of year, nothing that displays “good will towards men” more than people of all faiths coming together and wishing each other “Happy Holidays.”
For “Holiday Hogs” to be exclusive, stomp feet and throw tantrums because they can’t be the only religion celebrated at this time of year is their prerogative, but that kind of behavior leads me to believe they could use a little more Christ in their hearts.
So, in the spirit of “peace on earth and good will towards men,” to everyone of every religion or no religion at all:
HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO EVERYONE!
December 20th, 2007 at 2:43 pmThank you Marmann for your insightful and touching article. You said it better then I ever could, I can never seem to put into words what I see in my brain. I wish you all the best and hope all turns out well for you. Your statement in regards to animals hit very close to home, right or wrong, I have always had a higher regard for animals then most humans. Here is wishing you a very Happy Holiday season.
December 20th, 2007 at 6:02 pmEDLEE: Thank you for your kind words and holiday wishes. I wish the same for you in return.
I couldn’t agree with you more about animals, too. I had a puppy once who was very well housebroken and would let me know when she wanted to go outside. One night she scratched at the door at about 2:00 a.m. and woke me up. I had been sound asleep and basically stumbled to the door with one eye open to let her outside.
I went back to bed and suddenly heard the screeching of brakes. I immediately sat up in bed, fearing the worst, and I ran outside and found her, where she died in my arms. She had apparently found a place in the fencing to get out of the yard, and I didn’t know it.
I mentioned above about the moment of my death and if I can look myself in the mirror, etc. This happened 25 years ago, and I will never forgive myself for not knowing she was able to get out of the yard. I’m certain that at the moment of my death, this terrible, terrible memory will be in the forefront of my thoughts.
My daughter, of course, was heartbroken, as well, and I reluctantly took her to the SPCA where she picked out another “Trixie,” a collie-shepherd mix puppy. I was still beating myself up over the first Trixie and tried NOT to bond with this puppy; however, the second Trixie was having none of that. She wound up winning me over, basically being “my dog,” and for some reason, she was very, very protective of me. She lived to be 13 years old, and I cried like a baby when she died. I did, however, learn my lesson about making sure she was safe when she was outside. These loving creatures depend on me to keep them safe and healthy, and I’ll never be so careless again.
Ever since then, I’ve gone to the local shelter whenever I have wanted a pet. They do such wonderful work, and those animals need so much love.
Sorry for telling you more than I’m sure you wanted to know, but I guess it’s my way of saying that sometimes we are our own worst critics. After 25 years, I STILL don’t forgive myself and feel just as sad and guilty today as I was then that that loving little dog died because of me.
Again, thanks so much for your kind words and warm wishes. Right back atcha! :-)
December 21st, 2007 at 5:48 am‘The Second War In This Country’ Is ‘The War On God’
Well, who can dispute that? Tony Snow’s only error is that he incorrectly identified those who are waging this war. Just compare our govt. policies with the teachings of Jesus. Jesus was very clear about our responsibility to provide aid for “the least of these”— the poor, the vulnerable, the hungry and homeless. He told us not only to give aid where needed, but to do so adequately, even generously, and without judgment (i.e., “deserving” or “undeserving” poor). Our government decided that this was not compatible with American values, resulting in welfare-reform-as-we-got-it. Our social policies today are in direct opposition to religious teachings, so yes, we can call this a “War on God”, being waged by our political leadership.
Jesus taught that it’s easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to get into heaven. Well, that’s pretty clear. We’re a hyper-capitalist, hyper-materialistic, survival-of-the-fittest nation. The value of every American is determined solely by his economic status. Everything from his civil rights to his human rights is based on his bank account. Once again, our values are in direct opposition to the teachings of Jesus, verifying the “War on Godâ€.
Just compare what Jesus said about peace to America’s serial wars in recent decades! Humility? We are the greatestricheststrongestfreestbest… How about capital punishment? Welcoming the foreigner? The list goes on and on. America’s conservative leadership has, indeed, been at war with God.
December 27th, 2007 at 10:47 am