Wow! These past couple of weeks on Facebook have been interesting. I have read posts that have encouraged me, frustrated me, angered me and challenged me. I've spoken out at certain times, and decided it was best to be quiet other times. But since I dislike having my intentions misunderstood, here's why I chose to support CHICK-FIL-A Appreciation Day on August 1st:
1. Any Christian worth his/her salt would agree with Dan Cathy's statement: "I think we are inviting God's judgment on our nation when we shake our
fist at Him and say, 'We know better than you as to what constitutes a
marriage". As Christians, we are commanded - not just encouraged - but commanded to base our morality on the Bible. It is the standard for Truth, which does not changed with the passing of time or popular opinions of society. It may appear to be old-fashioned, critical, judgmental, unloving, unfair, bigotry, etc., etc. But it is what it is, and Dan Cathy has a RIGHT to believe what does.
2. Freedom of speech is part of the American
constitution. Nobody (not even vocal groups claiming discrimination)
has the right to take that away. We all agree that some things that are
said are hurtful; some things are downright "hate speech" (although I
do NOT think Dan Cathy was being hateful). But whether we agree or like
what someone has said or not, unless we want to re-write the
constitution...it is still supposed to be a right! Dan Cathy has the
RIGHT to say what he said.
I understand the hostility & hurt feelings that come out of the situation. But sometimes people need to take a step back, and use logic rather than just reacting on their feelings. It is what it is, and not everything is a personal attack! Having said, that, I do understand why some homosexuals may feel attacked by some Christians. Not all of us are like that. I have known homosexuals that I have liked very much; they are not lesser people because of their sexual orientation.
Having said that, I believe homosexuality is a sin because the Bible says it is a sin. You can say, "I was born this way, I can't help it,", etc. But people say that about any number of things, and if God calls it "sin", He promises a way out. (I Cor. 10:13 - "No temptation has overtaken you but what is common to man. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But...will provide a way out.") Yes, it's easy for me to say. Do I know what it's like to be gay or struggle
with homosexual tendencies? No! I would never presume to know that. But what I DO know is that we all have struggles. Our struggles may be different in kind or degree, but we all have them. Homosexuality is no more sin than lying, cheating, stealing, premarital sex, adultery, gossip...and a million other sins that are more "acceptable" in Christian circles. Sin is sin, and "all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." Romans 3:23
The good news is that we have a God who knows all about it, and He still loves each and every one of us. Gay or straight.
