Merry Christmas and a peace-filled new year

Merry Christmas and a peace-filled new year to all. Earth’s gift this year is a Pope who is not only a brilliant politician, he also seems to possess a Jesus heart and mission. What a refreshing development. As I child, I was inspired by a splendid film; I believe it was titled, “The Shoes of the Fisherman”. It portrayed a Pope of the people following a path I believe Jesus would have tread. I posses no religious belief, yet, Jesus is a hero to me.

Jesus graced us with his love. He didn’t demand our fear as payment. I care not if the Bible is a God-given book of facts or a man-made book of his own beliefs. Those who faithfully follow the lessons within are no threat to me. “Let he who is without sin cast the first stone” — has there ever been a more beautiful message or principle? I think not. Methinks Shakespeare wept at not ever having been able to match such a glorious proclamation. It is the false interpreters of the Bible I fear, not their God. Such are those deliverers of hate who show up at military funerals and condemn our fallen warriors.

The golden rule guides me and I attempt to do justice by it. Knowing the Jesus I know, it all seems pretty simple to me. I’m betting that when I die, and there be a Heaven, Jesus will meet me and declare, “William, you were not a believer. You feared not retribution, yet you endeavored to live a life of integrity and respect for all living things. You were not a hypocrite. You truly were repentant, sorrowful and deeply regretted any transgressions you may have committed. You never forgave yourself. I forgive you. Welcome.”

Not that’s love. That’s my Jesus. Merry Christmas.

WILLIAM R. OUIMET

Sandpoint