x3.

last week, we teased out the need for healthier engagement between the church and the LGBT community. we first talked about the temperature and tone of our conversation, and discussed how the current reality is not only unhelpful for creating safe and sacred places which allow peaceful and productive dialogue to flourish, but that it is simply not working.

we pointed out that this way of engaging is unacceptable  – and that it would be insane for us to continue down the path of the status quo.

seemingly right on cue, this past friday’s blogosphere further highlighted the polarizing language and nature of the conversation as it erupted with the news of louie giglio bowing out of his benediction for the presidential inauguration.

but there is hope.

‘we’re ripe for reconciliation.’

the destructive cycle of what has been must be broken in order for the conversation evolve and make way for what could be – and it should start with those of us who align ourselves with the ultimate picture of reconciliation, jesus christ.

may we boldly follow as his spirit leads us in the ministry of reconciliation, peace making and bridge building.

perhaps we could begin with echoing these words from jodi foster’s big coming out speech last night at the golden globes to those in each of our lives – those who do not understand us, and those whom we do not understand ::

(addressed to her mother)

‘… there are so many things that you won’t understand tonight – but this is the only important one to take in ::

i love you.

i love you.

i love you.

and i hope that if i say this three times, it will magically and perfectly enter into your soul, fill you with grace and the joy of knowing that you did good in this life.’

those beautiful words were matched, in my opinion, only by the intimate plea with which she summed up her heartstrings on stage ::

‘i want to be seen, to be understood - deeply…
and to be not so very lonely.’

these heartfelt desires are not unique to foster alone; rather, they are the common tongue of every person – straight or gay, male or female, conservative or progressive, churched or un-churched || all of us want these things.

may we be attentive to the needs in the midst of our own communities and neighborhoods, seeking to actively engage in communicating love, even those with whom we may not hold agreement or understanding.

may each and every divinely hand-crafted individual that crosses our paths know that they are seen and valued, desired and esteemed by those who claim to follow their Creator. may we learn to know them, to understand and embrace them, offering a place to belong – a seat at our table – as we mirror the unconditional love we profess to know from above.