Reach out
Rev. Mic McGuire
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
THIS IS IN response to a letter of hatred and bigotry aimed at our neighbors from Somalia.
First, to make clear where I stand, I believe in what God has done in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Because I believe this, I am also convinced I should live my life according to the teachings of Jesus. As part of those teachings, I am not free to speak unkindly of others, even if the constitution of a nation offers me that right. I am not free to act in an unkind manner towards another, even if the other doesn’t look like me, talk like me, or think like me. I am to love everyone, just as Jesus loved everyone.
America proudly proclaims freedom of speech. Those who believe in Jesus and follow his will are not free to speak as they choose, but must always speak the truth in love. America proudly defends its borders, especially now when it comes to the issue of “illegal immigrants.” (“Illegal immigrants” are not my words, and I believe they have become words of hatred and bigotry.) Those who believe in Jesus must remember to reach out to the stranger among us just as Jesus reached out to us. Those who follow Jesus need to speak confidently and act accordingly against hatred and bigotry in whatever manner found.
This is not only a response to a letter of hatred and bigotry, but also a desire to encourage the editor. I know Mr. Walker is interested in selling newspapers, and unfortunately hatred and bigotry, along with violence, sell. I don’t know if Mr. Walker follows the teachings of Jesus. But if he does, as editor, he has the opportunity to edit speech laced with hatred and bigotry before it reaches readers. If he doesn’t follow Jesus, I have some good news to share with him.
The Rev. Mic McGuire
Pastor, Grace United Methodist Church
P.S. I am going to the Seasonal Celebration, not to celebrate Christmas, but to support my spouse and daughter. They participate in the Seasonal Celebration.
P.S.S. Just like the letter on hatred and bigotry, let’s see if this one gets published.
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