President George Bush Sr.
Are some sins worse than others? Should we separate ourselves from sinful people? Jesus didn't and I don't think that's what we're supposed to do either. For the purposes of this post I'm not going to get into a lot of theology. Let's just say that I've studied the Bible, love God and have come to my own conclusions based on those two critical factors.
As people with conservative values, or as Christians, should we run or hide when a gay person enters our social strata? Should we be polite but superficial, ending the relationship before it begins?
In my estimation that's ridiculous. Have you ever had a friend who's having sex outside of marriage? Have you ever had friends who lived together before they were married? These are (according to the Bible) sexual sins. More than likely, you didn't terminate your friendship over your friends' choices. If you did, you can stop reading now because you won't agree with the remainder of this post.
In my relationships (built on trust and time together) I have earned the right to speak my opinion. In the spirit of candor and full disclosure, I let my friends know what my religious and political beliefs are from early in our affiliation. They know where I stand and have less chance of saying something that might hurt my feelings or offend me. This goes both ways; I want to know when to keep my mouth shut or when I can expect commiseration. My friends know when I think they are making choices contrary to God's best for them but that I love them any way.
Casual acquaintances may not know how I feel. I haven't earned the right to offer my opinion and certainly don't have a right to judge.That's why it's important to use a bit more discretion when choosing topics with those we don't know well.
I'm an old-school girl, living in suburbia. In terms of TV characters I'd say if you mix "Susan" and "Brea" from Desperate Housewives (much less OCD and anal) along with "Claire Huxtable" (Cosby Show), throw in a bit of "Audrey" (Rules of Engagement) and you'd have a fair representation of me. I'm still a bit uncertain about what to say or do when a gay person enters my world. I'm used to asking about people's marriages, kids, church, jobs and vacations. Guess I can stick to the latter two but that's a bit evasive and shallow. I'm learning.
I want to be known for living out standards that reflect the faith I claim. It's fine to have opinions on what defines sin. In fact, it's important to have moral absolutes as guidelines in our lives but the over-riding objective and sentiment should be kindness and sincerity. Gay, straight or otherwise (?) I hope those that cross my path will believe that I want to get to know them and care about them, not judge and change them. (not in my job description!)
Agree? Disagree? Hit me with your best shot below.
