Who Would Jesus Vote For?

One of the key tenets of Christianity seems to be that God is responsible for everything that happens.  Whenever a Christian survives a near death experience they are always quick to thank God, even if they should be surrounded by those that God chose to strike down.  Such was the case recently when a plane crash landed in the middle of a crowded market in the Congo, killing at least 36 but sparing those on board.

On the flip side they are quick to attribute any disaster to the wrath of God.  John Hagee for example has blamed the destruction of New Orleans on tolerance for homosexuality.  Pat Robertson blamed America for the terrorist attacks of 9/11, saying it was punishment for turning our back on God.

So what then do you think fundies will make of this?

Dale and Leilani Neumann, the parents who prayed over their 11 year old daughter while she died from untreated diabetes, will be charged with second-degree reckless homicide. This ends the speculation on how the tragic and easily prevented death would be handled. Second-degree reckless homicide carries a maximum sentence of 25 years though I would expect that even if convicted the sentence will be reduced.

It will be interesting to see how this plays out but I made my feelings clear earlier this month when I stated that these parents are as much responsible for their daughter’s death as the woman who stabbed her “possessed child”. Regardless of the intent, both little girls are dead due to the actions of their parents.

I wrote this morning about the hidden dangers of homeopathy. Faith based healing is another issue that can sound harmless on the surface yet really results in great damage. The death of Madeline Neumann is hardly unique. There are many other children who have died in the recent years due to their parents’ religion.

On March 2nd Ava Worthington, a 15 month old infant, died of an easily treated infection. Her parents have also been charged with manslaughter and criminal mistreatment. Ava and Madeline are only two of the most recent deaths caused by fundamentalist beliefs.

While I would never support any restrictions on freedom of/from religion it is important that we hold those who allow the deaths of children accountable. It is good that Madeline’s parents are facing charges. Hopefully this case will cause others to think twice before they allow their children to die.

William ~ WWJV4.com