JWB and God

[L Verge]

(11-18-2014 06:36 PM)Linda Anderson Wrote:  

(11-18-2014 06:09 PM)L Verge Wrote:  His hatred and actions were directed at people that he thought had changed his beloved country for the worst. In doing so, he "usurped" God's power. God is the final judge -- of course, we don't know what happened to Mr. Lincoln upon reaching the pearly gates...

Booth wrote in his diary about the assassination, "This last was not a wrong, unless God deems it so, and it's with Him to damn or bless me," which shows that he was preparing for death. Powell, Mary Surratt, Herold and Atzerodt also had time to prepare to meet their Maker before their executions.

Lincoln was not afforded that time.

I was raised to believe that one's actions in LIFE are what prepares one for the everlasting. And before some jump at me, I am not trying to imply that Mr. Lincoln did not practice a godly life. I'm sure that he did -- much more so than many of our nation's presidents.

I just never quite understand how anyone can live 10 to 100+ years doing whatever they darn well feel like doing and then be able to turn things around to suit God in a matter of days or months. Like Booth, I am an Episcopalian (born and raised), played the church organ for 26 years, and obediently said the General Confession every Sunday before Communion. That said, I still have problems with a mortal priest turning around and granting me absolution. I'm waiting on God to do that.

Sorry, I don't want to be a preacher...