IN THE CLINIC DEBATES, WHAT WOULD JESUS DO?

It has been fascinating to read of the furor regarding the locations for
the two proposed methadone clinics in the Roanoke Valley. Drug addiction is
a complex problem. The "war on drugs" has been an abysmal failure.

Yet here we are in a part of the country with the Rev. Jerry Falwell just
up the road. The message, as I understand it, is for a literal
interpretation of the Bible. I continue to struggle with spirituality, but
people around here seem to have the answers. They ask, "What would Jesus do?"

Let's see. Jesus' time on Earth, what little we know about it, seemed
devoted to practicing a doctrine of inclusion. He lived among the lepers,
sinners, politically incorrect and, in fact, the "damned." His constant
message was that of forgiveness, compassion and joining.

The Bible doesn't mention property values or fear of contamination by the
sick, poor or hated. He did stop a public execution. He did say that those
"without sin, let him cast the first stone."

I'm still wrestling with my beliefs. However, I'd offer back the question.
In regards to treating the addict, "What would Jesus do?"

KATHRYN A. ST. CLAIR

ROANOKE