September 3, 2008

The media have a double standard when it comes to sexual behavior. In the matter of Senator Larry Craig of Idaho, they treat his actions as a scandal because they know most conservative Republican voters are Christians and are appalled at especially homosexuality of any kind. Liberal democrats who have sexual encounters outside marriage get a different sort of treatment because the media know their mostly secular supporters don’t care.

And we know, don’t we, that the media largely want more Democrats in office to keep us safe from those religious fanatics who would impose on all of us a morality they have trouble imposing on themselves.

Before we get too judgmental about Larry Craig, think of what the prophet Jeremiah said: “The heart is deceitful and desperately wicked; who can know it?” The sin of Larry Craig may not be our particular sin, but that does not mean any of us is more holy than he is. We all have the capacity to seek our lower nature. That should give us pause and make us thankful for the grace and protection of God.

Cal Thomas is a nationally syndicated columnist based in Washington, D.C.