Tuesday, July 24, 2012

On Chick-fil-A, taking a stand, and love

There are two things I have no intentions of doing.

-- Boycotting Chick-fil-A
-- Applauding the public stance Chick-fil-A has taken on gay marriage.

Some feel led to do one or the other.  In fact, most of my Facebook friends apparently are either boycotting Chick-fil-A, or are speaking out publicly in defense of the Cathy family and their stance.

I feel led not to.

Right is right, even when it’s not popular.
With varying degrees of indignation, that’s what the opponents of same-sex marriage are saying on social media sites.


But it’s also the rallying cry of those in support of same-sex marriages, who are also flocking to these site, and also with a certain measure of indignation.

Here's a thought: Don't take a public stand on this issue.

Does I Peter 4:8 say:
 "Above all else, take a stand on what you consider a moral issue, because doing so will cover a multitude of sins?"

No.

Here's what it does say: 
 "Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each of you."

Now I don't know if this verse is really more important than others. But "Above all else" kind of gives me the impression that it should carry some weight.

It's the one commandment we were given in the New Testament.

"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." -- John 13:34-35

I see very little evidence that taking a public stand on this helps spreads the grace and love of the gospel.

But hey, I could be wrong.

4 comments:

  1. I don't think you are wrong.... I am with you on this!

    Good to see you writing again!!

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  2. Hmmmm. I think you can take a stand and do so in love. Part of being in the (larger) Church is that we disagree with each other, but still love one another. You know where I stand on this: I disagree with Chick Fil-A's stance; I believe they have the right to think what they do and spend their money how they see fit; And I have the right to spend my money elsewhere. BUT...I don't think that is out of line with what Jesus tells us to do. Just one hedge's opinion.

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  3. Take a stand and do so in love...Is it possible? Absolutely. Is it the norm? Nope. When weighing one versus the other, I say side with love.

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  4. You love others well, and your heart is good. I like John Mayers lyrics in "Belief"

    "Is there anyone who
    Ever remembers changing there mind
    from the paint on a sign?
    Is there anyone who really recalls
    Ever breaking rank at all
    For something someone yelled real loud one time

    Everyone believes
    In how they think it ought to be
    Everyone believes
    And they're not going easily

    Keep it coming sandman!

    ReplyDelete