The Aroma of Hypocrisy

We've received numerous emails from our always observant readers, pointing out yesterday's Washington Post article about an evangelical group making films, with active duty personnel and officers, inside the Pentagon. According to the Post, "In the video, much of which was filmed inside the Pentagon, four generals and three colonels praise the Christian Embassy, a group that evangelizes among military leaders, politicians and diplomats in Washington. Some of the officers describe their efforts to spread their faith within the military."

The Post goes on to say that Army Brig. Gen. Bob Casen refers in the video (posted on the group's website, at www.christianembassy.com) to the organization's special efforts to reach admirals and generals through Flag Fellowship groups. Whenever he sees another fellowship member, he says, "I immediately feel like I am being held accountable, because we are the aroma of Jesus Christ."

Of course, everyone deserves the right to exercise their freedom of religion, but doing so inside the Pentagon, in an official capacity while wearing our nation's uniform, is another thing entirely. Especially when simply mentioning that you'd very much like to marry your long-time partner is grounds for dismissal altogether.

Apparently, it's OK to recruit for your religion while in uniform, but standing up for your loved ones goes too far.

That reeks a bit too much of the aroma of hypocrisy.

- Steve Ralls