In the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic a Minister opted to have his Church remain open for business.

Days after one of the Services the Minister contracted the virus and died.

St. Peter met him at the Pearly Gates.  You’re a fool he told the Minister.  I can’t let you in.

The Minister, quoting Scripture, replied – but the Good Lord, said unto me “You Suffer Fools Gladly, As You Are Wise.”

Whereupon, the Good Lord, appeared at the Gate.  Who is this who puts words into my mouth?

Lord, it is I, your faithful servant. Answered the Minister.

What seems to be the problem Peter? Asked the Lord.

I can’t let this fool enter.  He is likely to spread Satan’s virus amongst our Flock, Replied Peter.

Which Virus is it this time that Lucifer is trying to sneak in?  Queried the Lord.

The dreaded Covid-19 known to us as SARS-2.  Replied Peter.

Say it ain’t so, uttered the Lord.

Where did you catch this Virus the Lord asked of the Minister?

Where else would you find me, Lord?  During difficult days I be’s at Church, of course.

How in the Hell did you manage that!

Well, smiled the Minister.  I stood my ground against Satan and kept the Church open in your Holy Name.

Oh, my God, sayeth the Lord.  You are truly a fool.

Peter?  Yes, Lord?

Are you truly thinking of denying this poor sap entrance to the Kingdom?

Yes, Lord!

I must concur.  But surely we could find a small corner where to stick him in?

But Lord, that spot is full of all the other Idiots we granted Special Dispensation to!!

Yes, but we can always make room for one more fool, it says so right there in the Scriptures!

Yes, Lord, but you didn’t write the “Good Book.”

True that! But I am the “Word.”

Copy that, Lord.