In the midst of our present crisis, there is a haunting question that keeps intruding itself into our thoughts. A disturbing interrogative. Not new. Not uncommon. In fact, it is found in the biblical narrative of Judges. It is Gideon’s question: “if the Lord is with us, why has all this happened to us?” How could God allow so many people to suffer and die from an illness that knows no age, no race, no nationality? If God is all powerful, why does he allow this? Why does he not intervene?

Mosques, synagogues and churches across the country have closed their doors to public gatherings for worship. Faced with the fast spreading, contagious and sometimes fatal coronavirus, many religious leaders of every faith have chosen to use caution in safeguarding the health and life of their faithful. But not all agree.

In 1957, pop sociologist Vance Packard made the New York Times best-seller list for an entire year. His book The Hidden Persuaders explored the dark side of advertising. He exposed the use of motivational psychology that companies were using to advertise their products and entice people to buy them. His point was well taken. People respond to what promises them comfort and security, health and happiness.