In this festive season, it seems appropriate to ask what is mortification.
Some see it as a shriving of the body that frees the soul.
Others believe it is a natural consequence of approaching godliness.
These people know nothing. Mortification is standing at your door before a gathering of carol singers. They have just asked your pre-school daughter what Yuletide tune she would like to hear, and received the lisping response "Jesus Entering From the Rear".
Theodicy cannot encompass your feelings when she then launches into the chorus.
