As I sit down to write this, I can’t help but feel a sense of sadness and disappointment in the recent legislative changes in Tennessee. These laws, which have garnered much controversy and debate, have cast a shadow over our community and the image of the Church.
I’m not here to debate politics. Those that know me well know where I stand, and that’ the furthest I’ll go in a political debate.
We were featured on SNL, national news and other embarrassing outlets, and the conversations quickly turned from legislature to religion.
I’m going to say something that you may not have heard recently, but – just because someone uses the name of Jesus for their agenda, doesn’t mean the Church (capital C, not lowercase) approves or is on board. The Church isn’t the building or the organization. And we have just as many differing opinions on the government’s reach into matters of the heart internally as any other group.
While I understand that people have differing opinions on various issues, the core message of the Church has always been one of love, compassion, and understanding. It is disheartening to see that these new laws, which some argue go against these fundamental principles, have been so closely associated with the Church and its teachings.
As a person of faith, it’s difficult to witness the division and animosity that these laws have generated, both within and outside the Church. I’ve seen friends and family members struggle with their beliefs, questioning the very foundation of their faith. It’s painful to see the Church, a place that should be a sanctuary of love and hope, become embroiled in political disputes and controversies.
In these trying times, I believe it’s essential for us to remember the core values of the Church and the teachings of Jesus. Instead of focusing on the differences that divide us, let us focus on the common ground we share and the love that binds us together.
Let us not forget that Jesus taught us to love our neighbors as ourselves and to show mercy and compassion to those in need. These values should guide us as we navigate the complexities of our society and strive to create a more just and loving world.
As we move forward, I hope that we, as a community and as individuals, can find a way to bring healing and unity to our divided hearts. We must continue to pray for wisdom and guidance and seek to be beacons of love, compassion, and understanding in a world that so desperately needs it.
In the face of adversity, let us not lose hope or faith. Instead, let us hold fast to the teachings of Christ and work together to build a more inclusive, loving, and compassionate future for all.
#faith #compassion #community #love #healing