It's not often I get in on all of the political / current events talk, but this is one particular talk I can't really keep my head out of. It's everywhere, and it seems as if though anyone who is anyone has made some kind of public stance about this pastor, Mr. Jones. So if I had the opportunity to address him, here is what I would say:
Mr. Jones, to you first I quote 1 Corinthians 10:23-24: "Everything is permissible, but not everything is beneficial. Everything is permissible, but not everything is constructive. Nobody should seek his own good, but the good of others." Also, Matthew 5:38-39: "You have heard it said, an eye for an eye, and tooth for tooth. But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also."
Sir, it may not be against the laws of our country for you to burn the book deemed holy by another religion, you may even consider that well within your rights of free speech. It is, however, in no way beneficial to your particular 'religion' or to those you may be trying to reach. Most of all, it is not beneficial to the cause of Christ. As a fellow Christian (who grimaces at even considering us a part of the same 'group'), I feel that you ruin our reputation, our message, and our progress. Consider yourself, Mr. Jones, and your own feelings as extremists in other countries burn our Holy Bible. It makes us angry, it breaks our hearts, and most of all, it makes us immediately wish to 'write off' the thoughts and ideas of the religions held by those extremists. It makes sense that if they were to ever try to 'reach us' for their cause, we would have nothing to do with their message. You, sir, are that extremist. You are that terrorist. You are a terrorist to your own religion, completely squelching Jesus' message of love and redemption. God has called us to love Him and to love our neighbor as ourselves. Unlucky for you, He didn't specify your neighbor's religion, and you are not showing love.
You are considering the sin of a small group of extremists and damning an entire religion. We may agree that 9/11 was an awful day in American History, but sir, evil did not prevail. God is still God, He is still in control. Your public, malicious display of hate does not benefit, in any way, the glory that God plans to get from such a tragedy. No, maybe love, despite our nature, would overlook such a great display of hate that was delivered against our country on 9/11. Yes, love would have to be supernatural. Hate is our flesh, and sir, you display hate.
It is my plea that you would reconsider. Remember the God of love who brought you out of darkness, who showed you great mercy and great kindness, and do the same for others. If you decide to do otherwise, we can not be one in the same. Is it possible that my 'brother' in Christ could be of the faith and show such hate? Remember who you represent, sir. Please.
I agree wholeheartedly, Alicia. You might check out my recent blog about Mr. Jones.
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