Such stories are rife in the Bible, endorsing childish concepts
of spells and magic, wizards and witches, endemic to the Helenic world.
They may be late additions to the Gospel accounts to counter popular expectations
as the stories of Jesus were spread to the charismatic gentile world.

They still represent the attraction of a childish faith,
drawn to the maternal figure who rights all wrongs,
or to the paternal who is all-powerful, conquers all.
Such a faith does not question its basis,
nor look its dubious reality in the eye,
but accepts what it is told
and follows obediently,
even blindly,
maybe.

As such, it can not be challenged
for it can only repeat the "truths" of what it believes.
It can not discuss beyond those truths, for they are foundational.
It dare not seek a reality that lies beyond its boundaries
nor stray beyond the lines that have been drawn.
Yet that is where life really lies
in practical terms.

So we are faced with a decision over whether to challenge, or
to accept the mistaken conceptions of the vocal majority.
Should we point out where things do not add up, or
abandon them to their greater comfort,
not upset the apple-cart?

.