Article August 12, 1996 Issue

No fear of religious extremism

Gail Haslam

While still in the minority in each of the world religions of Islam, Judaism, and Christianity, fundamentalist movements are growing. Many people view extreme fundamentalism with alarm, fearing not only that it threatens religious diversity and freedom of choice but also that it could jeopardize world peace and stability.

We can take heart at the example of Christ Jesus. He walked calmly through a troubled world and met the extremist forces of his day with healing and love that triumphed over all obstacles. Following his resurrection, Jesus instructed his disciples to remain in Jerusalem and wait for God's promise of freedom from oppression. Perhaps anticipating an impending revolution, the disciples asked him, "Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?" Jesus answered: "It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power. But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you" (Acts 1:6–8).

In praying for religious harmony, we can know that everyone can experience God's goodness and love. The influence of the Holy Ghost, the Comforter sent by God, makes this possible. This Comforter, which Mary Baker Eddy describes as Divine Science, brings peace. It shows us that none of us need be left alone or confused in our search for community and for basic values such as security, health, and a more spiritual way of life. Even in times of anger, fear, and frustration we can reject aggressive behavior because we are following the example of the master Christian, whose Principle was Love. As Children of the one universal creator, God, we each include only spiritual good, unlimited safety, satisfaction, and fulfillment. Fear has no power over us because we can never be cut off from God's love.

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