Signs of the Times

Apparently, this is the week for signs and symbols on Facebook.  As it is Holy Week, inevitably you've seen numerous symbols of our Christian faith, primarily crosses, but plenty of additional Christ-imagery.  If you're a true "'Bookie" (my name for frequent Facebook users...it's probably going viral), you could not have missed the abundance of red and pink equality signs posted to show support for gay marriage.  Then there's the response imagery---pink and red crosses, abortion-themed pictures, and quirky memes deriding the entire viral imagery movement.  Of course, most of these pictures are posted to generate discussion, to be provocative, or, honestly, to irritate.  Unfortunately, there's been plenty of talk and very little discussion.  I've read plenty of monologues and lots of back-patting, but not much civil engagement between either side of this issue.

So, should I just write another monologue, pouring my beliefs out in an environment that is slightly less invasive than Facebook?  That's not the point of this blog (and either way, I'll be posting this link to Facebook for all you 'Bookies to check out).  I won't try to speak for those who are posting the equality sign.  Certainly, they have their reasons and feel justified in their approach.  My commentary is for Christians who feel obligated to use their social media to chime in on this "debate" (which is really no debate at all, considering that the two sides aren't really talking, right?).

I've got a few friends and several more acquaintances who are gay, and my experience has been that a social media image or meme, let alone a diatribe, has never convinced anyone that their lifestyle is wrong.  For most, being gay is not something they can be talked out of.  Whether you agree or not, you will be hard-pressed to find a gay person who will tell you they are choosing homosexuality.  So, talking someone out of something they believe is a part of their makeup is not a realistic approach.

If this is the case, what does posting an anti gay-marriage image or comment really accomplish?  Well, other Christians may look on with smug approval and pat you on the back for a job well-done.  You may have exercised your right to free speech.  Maybe you feel you've stood up for what is right.  But you haven't changed anyone's mind.  No one is changing their lifestyle based on your post.  The Supreme Court isn't eagerly checking out your page to help them make a decision on gay marriage.  It's quite likely you've further alienated the people you say you want to reach...that's about all that has been accomplished.  (Side note:  As much as I like the cross of Christ, I don't really like the pink and red response crosses.  It smacks of snarkiness and is far more likely to create needless conflict than to convert anyone.)

Pictures don't change people.  Arguments don't change people.  Your religion doesn't change people.  Jesus, however, He actually has the power to change things.  Let's focus our outreach on the person of Jesus, the transformer of the world.  Instead of introducing to people to stereotypical Christianity, let's introduce them to the Christ.  Let's allow Christ to work in the lives of people without us stepping all over the work He is trying to do.

What's your motivation when you post?  Biblically speaking, if love is not at the heart, it's time to delete.  Later, Bookies.