Love Listens

The point of my Christianity and Homosexuality post was NOT to declare a position, but rather to encourage dialog, listening, and understanding. It's not that I don't have a position; I'm just tired of positions being more important than people.

Love and dialog are needed from all directions and perspectives. The issue is far more varied and nuanced than the oversimplified FOR or AGAINST approach most people try to force upon it. We need to wrestle with who we are, what the Scriptures are, what they say, what it means to follow Jesus, what it means to be transformed, and how to do this in community.

Among Jesus followers, we have wildly divergent views about the Bible, the intricacy of human physiology, the complexities of personal identity, and the meaning of personhood. Love and humility demand that we take each other seriously. This can't be done if we stop caring for each other and stop listening to each other.

Truth is usually found right in the center of tension. That's why it is so important for people who have formed opinions to keep themselves in check by staying in the conversation and continually testing their conclusions.

Some of you may be familiar with the late Michael Spencer who gave us the Internet Monk blog and podcast. He was a great example of how to have a conviction and a conversation at the same time. The Christian community lost a charitable and constructive voice when he died earlier this year. Fortunately, friends are keeping his blog up and running, and his posts are still available to read. I would encourage you to read this post: http://www.internetmonk.com/archive/a-response-to-nicki-acceptance-3-2 . It's right on topic and probably says what I'm trying to say better than I can say it.

Grace and Peace!