Answer #1

There was a tangible tension in the air as we entered the bar that night. I suppose the word had spread that the pastor of this “church” had decided to tackle the more controversial issues surrounding Christianity in today’s context; I didn’t see an open seat around. Tonight, of all nights, seemed to be the night to attend. Tonight the pastor was going to preach on homosexuality. For some, this sparked great interest, the mere mention of modern controversial issues was engaging for them. Not because they wanted to learn more about the subject itself but because of the true emotions that passionate disputes can draw out of people; sometimes its just fun to watch. Others were there with their senses peaked, ready to jump at the first sign of heresy. Still, others were there listening for a sign of hope, searching for an accepting church, with no expectation of finding love here; in this bar, in this church.

I had no idea what to expect, no idea of what I wanted to hear, and still found myself nervous and eager to hear what was about to be said. I was certain that the young pastor would not be able to please everyone tonight. Immediately, I was astonished at what he had to say. The first words out of his mouth as he stood up to the microphone called us all out, “Here is why this is not going to work”, he said, followed by a kind reproach to us all already waiting to hear whether or not his words confirmed or denied our already set beliefs. Tonight, we were told, we must face the bible from a different perspective. One that does not ask, “What does the bible have to say to homosexuals” but instead, “What does the bible have to say to me?” Right now. Tonight. What does God want me to hear?

This simple shift in perspective blew my mind. What was I being told about this issue? What did God have to say to me? Wow. I am not going to debate whether or not homosexuality is right or wrong or what the “appropriate Christian response” is to this specific issue but, I would like to ask for a shift in perspective. Homosexuality, abortion, immigration, and so many other controversial issues have become the forefront of the Christian faith in America. I believe these issues are suffocating, dividing, and limiting the Church. For some reason we have decided that it is more important for the world to know about their sins than about the unconditional love and grace of Christ. Families, churches, and homes are torn apart by are incessant arguments over these “gray issues” of faith. Gray issues, issues we will never understand in this world, they are worthy enough to divide the community of Christ? I would like to propose a different idea, nothing astounding or new but, a simple shift in perspective. Wouldn’t it be better to ask, in the midst of all these issues, what God is saying to us and not to “them”? Wouldn’t it be better to approach all things in love? If we are called to show Christ to the world, what does it look like to love as he loved? Another thought I heard that night; have you ever seen anyone standing in a picket line and thought, “Man, they look like Jesus”?