Notes n' Such

It surprises me more and more each day how polarizing our country is becoming. From the tea party to Nancy Pelosi. No one thinks they’re wrong. Then there’s Chick-fil-A.

First of all, I think that there are such bold lines dividing the Christian community and the LGBT community that is makes it difficult to cross them. These lines have been drawn by both sides, neither is innocent. Second of all, I believe that privately held companies can have whatever values they choose so long as they do not discriminate on whom they serve or hire. BUT, it makes little sense to me why my cereal company, where I get my hair cut at, and the place I get the best sweet ever need to take a stand on political issues. It seems that the LGBT side of the issue essentially pressured companies like JCPenney’s, Target, Kraft Foods, and others to either come out in support or be assumed to be against. Which just isn’t true, they don’t have to take ANY side.

We’ve reached a point where one side of this issue is being expressed immensely—from television shows, to music, to companies like the ones I listed above. It’s silly for them to expect the other side to remain silent. So, while I don’t think companies need to express their political opinions, I do understand why Dan Cathy expressed his.

Many have criticized Christians’ support for the company, especially the enthusiastic support that has outpoured recently. Saying such things as “think twice before you post that picture of a chicken sandwich on your Facebook”. I completely understand how a person’s support for “Chick-fil-A Appreciation Day” can come across as negative or polarizing in they eyes of the LGBT community, however, I believe it is very important to support Chick-fil-A today. This went from a company’s COO affirming his Christian values to public officials declaring a ban for the restaurant in their city. That. Is. Ridiculous.

My stand on same-sex marriage is irrelevant with this post. Regardless of what it is, I would still support this company. I still support General Mills, Kraft Foods, JCPenney’s, Target, and other companies may Christians called to boycott. I mean really? What sort of message does it send out that Christians are boycotting  Fruit by the Foot  (FRUIT BY THE FOOT, PEOPLE. How can you not love that?! and Coco Puffs in the name of their faith? 

John 13:34-35 states it boldly,

“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

If you don’t agree with the company, don’t be a costumer, no need to join “One Million Moms” in their hostile boycotts.

So while I do not believe that it glorifies His kingdom to boycott companies and such things similar because we have an opposing view, I do not think it’s hate for a Christian to go and support Chick-fil-A today. To me, we are supporting free speech as well as assuring that we, as a body, will stand behind a fellow Christian at a time many are attacking them for taking a stand on a Biblical value.

I’m going to Chick-fil-A to show love to another Christian and a great company who is an excellent employer and provider of delicious poultry, not to hate anyone. But please, when you speak about the “Chick-fil-A issue” or post your picture online, do it cautiously, lovingly, and thoughtfully. Not in spite, hate, or hostility.

The favorite thing I’ve read about this issue was from Perry Noble’s blog that Tim Cartwright shared:

People have taken me to I Corinthians 6:9-11 before and said, “look, the Bible says that homosexuals will NOT inherit the kingdom of God.”  I always try my best to point out that also included in that list are…

• The sexually immoral (anyone been watching porn?)
• Idolaters (anyone love anyone or anything more than Jesus?)
• Adulterers (see Matthew 5:27-28)
• Thieves
• The greedy (uh oh!)
• Drunkards (tailgating season is quickly approaching)
• Slanderers (uh oh, a lot of bloggers and women’s Bible studies are in trouble!)
• After looking at this list I would say we are all pretty much screwed unless Jesus intervenes.”

After today is over with and we finish off our waffle fries, let’s take the unity we have had supporting Chick-fil-A and use it to reach out to, be compassionate towards, and show love to the LGBT community, the greedy, the drunks, the slanderers, the idolaters, the thieves, the sexually immoral, the liar. The list goes on, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. The important thing is that we know there’s a hope, now let’s love and share that hope. Let’s get started.

Oh, magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together!”

-Psalm 34:3

“Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.’

-Ephesians 4:31-32