Commentary

The word “pestilence” immediately evokes a threatening and ominous picture of a fatal epidemic. We may think of the bubonic plague—the infamous “Black Death”—along with pandemic influenzas or other contagions. Some may also think of dire biblical warnings regarding the “last days.” Can we find protection from pestilence?

It seems there is precious little in the news today to give cause for optimism about the future. Indicators everywhere suggest that life could become a lot rougher. Many people look around and grow discouraged by what they see. For some, their personal lives have been or are becoming destitute of hope. But is there any real reason for hope?

Have you ever wondered how and why the organization that supports the Tomorrow's World television and publishing efforts never asks the viewing public for money? It seems that a hallmark for religious broadcasting is an emphasis on appeals for contributions. The message is often short on spiritual content and long on "send us money."

Those of us whose lifespan goes back to the Great Depression can still recall the image of grown men selling pencils on street corners. The common attitude saw life as a day-to-day struggle for existence. The United States had stalled in its tracks, and President Franklin D. Roosevelt had a monumental job on his hands seeking to stir up a nation to get out and...