Huckleberries: Lawmaker hotline a bit too pious

I know it can be difficult to reach an Idaho lawmaker when the state Legislature is in session. But now you have to make a heaven-or-hell choice if you want your legislator to call back. Don’t believe me? Try dialing the information center number listed in the printed 2007 Legislative Directory for the 59th legislative session: (208) 322-1000 – rather than the correct one listed elsewhere, (208) 332-1000. If you punch in the number, you’ll hear the recorded voice of a perky woman who begins by saying “Hi there” and then shifts gears to address eternal issues. The Church Woman continues: “If today was the last day of your life, would you be ready to meet God?” (This, and all you wanted to do was question Rep. Phil Hart, R-Athol, about his income tax problems.) Then: “The Bible says there are only two places anyone can go after death – into the presence of God or eternally separated from God.” (By now, you’re scratching your head and checking the number you dialed. Or, you’re wondering if it’s possible in Flyover Idaho that the current Republican leadership has authorized the message.) The recording goes on to say that “everyone is invited to come to heaven, but many will choose not to. … Please consider what Jesus has done on your behalf … so when your last day comes, you’ll be ready.” In the proper setting, there’s nothing wrong with that sermonette. It’s preached from thousands of pulpits in this country every Sunday. I personally believe it. I’m also amused by how much heartburn it’ll cost church-state separators until the 2008 edition comes out.