Perspectologist

Many years ago my grandfather introduced me to the great Irish comedian Hal Roach .  He told a joke about putting one’s trust in God that I found very profound.  I will paraphrase below:

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There was a catholic priest writing his sermon at a church in a valley.  Suddenly he noticed water pouring through the door.  As the water level started to rise he climbed upon his desk.  He said a prayer asking God to save him.  Eventually a row boat came by.

Row Boat Passenger: Father, the Dam broke and the valley is flooding! Get in the boat, we will save you!

Priest: No.  I have faith.  The Good Lord will save me!

The water continues to rise, and the priest climbs up on the roof of the church.  He says another prayer just as a large motor boat comes by.

Motor Boat Passenger: Jump in father, we will save you!

Priest: No.  I have faith.  The Good Lord will save me!  Go one without me.

The water is now even higher, and the priest has climbed to the top of the steeple.  He says a third prayer.  A helicopter hovers over him.

Helicopter Pilot: Get in father!  We can save you!  This is your last chance!

Priest: No.  I have faith.  The Good Lord will save me!

The water rises over the steeple.  The priest finds himself standing at the gateway to heaven, he looks around and sees St. Peter.

Priest: I don’t understand what happened…  Why didn’t God save me?  I had faith.  I prayed.  Why wasn’t I saved?

St. Peter: Well, you know, we did send two boats and a helicopter.
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Faith can be complicated.  It can inspire human beings to defy vast odds and take noble stands for the greater good of humanity.  However it can also cause people to become so caught up with the trappings of divine mysticism that they are blind to the natural human reason our creator has blessed us with.