As
an Evangelical Pastor, (please check any pre-conceived ideas and baggage at the
door before reading any further) I want to reach out to Ogden, with a message
of hope and support.
These
are trying times, and while so many are doing so much, there is so much more
that we can do in the area of justice for every member of our community. Recent
events in Utah and throughout the country have resulted in so many people
feeling belittled and demeaned, marginalized, and even threatened. Other
initiatives provide hope for some, but again leave others feeling that their
voice may be being taken away.
After
a particularly bitter presidential campaign season, many Muslims and Hispanics
have expressed concerns which need to be addressed. And POTUS’ recent executive
orders haven’t help those fears and concerns. The African-American community
has expressed concerns. And yes, sometimes Evangelicals have concerns,
especially when it comes to religious freedom and liberty, terms which we use
frequently, and not always correctly.
In many cities it seems that Law Enforcement
officials are targets of violence, and so they have safety concerns. As do
other first responders, and sometimes even cab drivers. And let’s not forget the homeless and others
who are often marginalized because of their circumstances.
Tolerance
is a word which is thrown about, demanded by everyone, but not always offered
in return. You’ve seen it often, an individual or group does or says something
which may seem a little out of line, and claims that it’s their constitutional
right, that’s it’s their religious freedom, that it’s freedom of speech, and
everyone else is supposed to accept it as is. “It’s my right!” But all too often these same individuals or
groups, demanding that others tolerate them, see any pushback as something that
can’t be tolerated, often trying to push it to the level of a hate crime.
This
is a call for us all to work together, to push for justice, to celebrate
diversity in our increasingly diverse community. It has to start somewhere, and
so I encourage you to join me in expressing concern and solidarity with every
member of our community. Speak up when you notice injustice—yes there are ways
to do so that don’t call for violence. Be a voice for the voiceless
Some
of you are brothers and sisters in Christ, some follow other teachings, or
adhere to different religious practices. If you live in my community, you are
my neighbor and, I hope, my friend. You
are valued and appreciated, for who you are, but also for the richness of
culture that you bring to Ogden. As we celebrate the diversity of our
neighborhood, we have to also give thanks for how each of you, each of us,
contributes to the well-being of our neighborhood.
My faith, as perhaps yours does,
goes beyond a political affiliation, it goes beyond stereotypes, and it goes
beyond the evil of the world that conspires to divide us. Obviously, as a Christian pastor, I don’t
agree with the various theologies that can be found in my neighborhood, but that
doesn’t mean I hate you. It means we disagree over some fundamental issues. But
disagreement never needs to mean lack of respect. In fact, it is often our
differences that lead to even greater respect. Please don’t let your politics
overrule your faith walk.
In a recent letter signed by several
Memphis area Evangelical Pastors, and published in the Commercial Appeal we find this sentiment which I hope is soon the
norm throughout the land. If it can happen in Memphis, it can happen in Ogden.
“"We
desire and hope that we will demonstrate in more visible ways, to all in our
city and particularly to those from diverse cultures and countries, our
commitment to love our neighbors," the pastors wrote.
"Further, we reaffirm our commitment, as the
Bible directs, to promote peace and to support policies that allow equal
opportunities for all to flourish and fulfill their God-given potential."
Christian
Scripture, (and probably other Holy Books) is full of references to how to
treat strangers, foreigners, and aliens in the land. (You can go to this page and download the free 40 day “I Was a Stranger”
reading plan.) And then we have the Parable of the Good Samaritan which is a
good reminder of who our neighbor really is. Jesus did not suggest love your
neighbor, as long as he looks, dresses, talks, thinks and worships like you do.
He said “Love your neighbor.” As a Christian, I am compelled to be reminded of
the essence of Imago Dei—every human being is created in the image of God, and
as such is precious in His sight, and deserving of dignity and respect.
“Justice for all” is such an
important part of who we are as Americans: citizens, immigrants, refugees, resident
aliens and any other titles conferred by virtue of visa status, but until we
treat each other as valued members of our society, treat each other with
dignity and respect, celebrate our diversity, and work together for the good of
all, that justice will never happen. We have the chance to make it happen, and
it can start now- with you and with me. Please join me in in celebrating all
that our community has to offer.
