"If you in any way, shape, or form support Planned Parenthood, please unfriend me now. You are no friend of mine."
Of course, this was in response to the recent Planned Parenthood controversy. Of course, she is a conservative Christian.
My mind instantly contrasted her attitude with that of Jesus'. So, I thought of questions I could send her:
- Who would Jesus "unfriend"?
- Wouldn't you be more likely to change a friend's mind on abortion if they remained your FB "friend"?
- Might your attitude help reinforce stereotypes of the "Judgmental Christian"?
- Could your attitude help foster ill will towards your political allies and more importantly, Christianity?
Of course I didn't send them.
I am sure she posted out of sheer anger and frustration. I am sure she felt compelled to preach the "truth" to others because she (and I) feel like we have little control over a crazy world around us. I suppose the real question to ask is:
When will Christians figure it out?
Love is the answer, not judging.
You will not change minds by being angry. You will not change minds by screaming at people in person or online on Facebook. You will most certainly not change minds by allying yourself with politicians. 20th century Christianity sold it's soul for 3 more decades of "cultural relevance" but its alignment with politics has left it bankrupt in the mind of the public.
Christians are seen as walking in lockstep with the GOP. Christians are often seen as mean, judgmental, anti-poor, even anti-tipping! Christians are generally seen to hate homosexuals and even science. The stereotype ain't that far off, either. They are defined by fear, repression and basically the word "no".
Judging others dismisses their perspective and makes the other person feel angry and not valued.
Love includes others in the conversation, listens and gains respect of the other person.
I don't blame my "friend" for the downfall of American Christianity, but she sure ain't helping either.
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