Katherine Harris and the Bible [View All]

Published July 8, 2003
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/local/orl-locmaxwell08070803jul08,0,611742.column?coll=orl-news-headlines

Harris holds principles dear, while political guide gets real

Scott Maxwell

Now that summer's here, it's time for a few selections from the Taking Names book club.

Who has 'The Answer'?

A contemporary version of the Bible, called The Answer, is packed with stories, insight and advice from Central Floridians.

For instance, Longwood physician Dr. Don Colbert talks about Jesus as a role model for exercise (he walked 400 miles from Egypt to Nazareth) and healthy eating (since he apparently liked yogurt, grains, nuts and kosher meats).

And Lake Mary pastor R.C. Sproul offers perspective on what it means to be " a servant of Christ."

Much of this book seems to be Chicken Soup for the Soul-kind-of stories. They're reflective vignettes designed to inspire or enlighten. And tidbits from a pastor and biblical scholar make sense.

But there are also several passages written by U.S. Rep. Katherine Harris -- making for a truly unique version of any Bible.

In one part, the Republican from Sarasota recounts the 2000 presidential election, when the then-secretary of state made the fateful decision that placed George W. Bush in the White House. "When adversity strikes, we must remember our principles and why we hold them dear," she writes.

This chapter is supposedly related to the book of Psalms. You know, the verse that says: "God sayeth thou shall parlay partisan politics into a chance for higher office."