May 10, 2008
Sacrifices - a very special topic. Most Wiccans know a
version of the Charge Of The Goddess which explicitly says that She
does not desire sacrifices. But some don't, and others bring
the concept of sacrifices as part of their emotional baggage from
other spiritual paths. So, let's look at it from what this
show tries to make as its usual point of view - that of practical
theology that you can actually use every day.
We know that sacrificing is in the past of our ancestors.
That's how they got food, especially meat. It was also what
had to suffice sometimes as a way to deal with people who were not
able to "pull their own weight" in ancient society. Most
interesting is that sacrifices seemed to increase with the
fanaticism associated with a dying culture - as if cutting the
hearts out of the best warriors would help win a war.
And, sacrifices are a part of modern life, especially spiritual
life. Did you ever hear someone encourage anyone to "give
until you feel good?" No, the saying is "give until it
hurts." And, of course, we cannot forget the preachers and
others who will promise blessings to those who put the rent money
in the collection plate and "have faith" that their need will
somehow be met.
Salvation, if you need it, is not for sale. Nobody has the
franchise on the Heavenly Admissions Desk. And above all
else, The Divine cannot be bribed. Yes, The Divine might very
well accept an offer. But filling some pastor's collection
plate is not the way to get the attention of The Divine.
And do you think that human sacrifice is gone? When a child
is told that someone they loved is dead because of "God's will",
the effect is pretty much the same. To say nothing of what a
way that is to introduce a child to The Divine.
And perhaps there is something better. In fact, there is
something better. Like so much else, it has been waiting for
us to make more use of it. A way that doesn't hurt, and can
often do much more than sacrificing could ever do!
Not only can we break the bonds of sacrifice and spiritual
blackmail (and guilt-trips), we can move to an even higher
level.
Once you see what I'm talking about, you'll see what I mean!
Blessed Be!