Lama's log

asbojesus.com

This may be an unwise post but while on holiday I thought a lot about Christian reactions to homosexuality. My conclusion? I think it's one of the issues which makes me ashamed of my context. I don't mind that people disagree with me. I don't mind that people think homosexuality sinful or against God etc etc. I mind that people are abused and sidelined because of their relationships. I mind that homosexuality is talked about in the same conversation that paedophilia is mentioned. I mind that church communities, whatever they think, do not campaign vigorously for gay rights, because no one should be discriminated against. I mind that a newly accredited minister is not supposed to get involved in civil partnerships because it may jeopardise their accreditation (this last one makes me madder than I am able to communicate). I mind that church communities often side with harsh reactions rather than graceful. I mind, I mind, I mind.

I have read the biblical verses. I know the arguments. But then I've read lots of Biblical arguments for lots of things and I engage in enough Biblical interpretation to have a mass of humility before declaring that I know the mind of God, and God must think like me. The study of doctrine taught me that we can try and define God all we want but God is beyond our boxes and our perspectives and we would do well to hesitate before we declare a body of people innately sinful and more importantly, we declare them worthy of our scorn and wrath.

I want to see our churches a little bit fuller of gay people, why aren't I breaking bread with more homosexuals? I don't think I want you to tell me the answer, I'm too aware of the reality.