No One is Above the Law
Written by Rev. Dr. Scott Paczkowski
“Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow’s cause. ”
Why are we continually disappointed in our political figures? Gov. Cuomo, with daily Covid briefings, was a breath of fresh air, facing this pandemic head-on and with transparency. Yet, his downfall – being accused of shameless activities with numerous women – is disappointing partly because of his lack of transparency and willingness to illegally smear some of his accusers.
I was critical of Donald Trump and his inappropriate actions towards women, and I need to respond with similar outrage when it is someone from the other political party. Abusing women isn’t a Republican or Democrat issue, but a human issue. Gov. Cuomo’s excuse that this is who he is and how he was raised doesn’t hold water. Watch the movie “M*A*S*H” or the television show of the same name, and it will give you an idea of how men of the 1970s were allowed to act toward women. Thankfully, most men have transitioned their ideas as society is evolving. The idea that a political figure like Gov. Cuomo doesn’t need to change his views over time is ridiculous.
Many men have made mistakes and wish we responded more ethically, with a greater sense of equality and respect toward women. However, expectations change over time, and it is not appropriate to refuse to learn and grow with improved behavior. The requirement to grow ethically is true of people of faith as well. Reading centuries-old religious theology, and these tragic theologians trying to advocate for slavery faithfully, makes one sick. The idea that a large part of Christendom treats women as unworthy of full acceptance as clergy is another form of abuse.
Today, pray for our society to continue evolving by becoming more respectful and accepting spiritually. As people of faith, we are also called to stand behind ethical action, even when it hurts politically. Standing up against abuse is central to our faith as followers of Jesus Christ. Pray for the issue and the women who were assaulted, but also speak against abuse.
