One of my friends and fellow ministers at Cascade Hills had the distinct pleasure of graduating from Abilene Christian University in Texas. I had the opportunity to visit the school several times while I was in Texas, and it was clear that it was a great place. I have come to see many of the professors there as strong, important voices in today's rapidly changing landscape of American Christianity.
Recently, a group called SoulForce asked to be allowed on campus to engage others in public dialogue about the cultural world of the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender for those of you who have not yet run across the pervasive acronym). ACU was one of the very first schools to allow them access to the student body, despite their convictions about the lifestyle choices made by those who make up SoulForce. ACU went far beyond access, engaging them in a number of large public forums, welcoming them warmly, listening to their concerns and agendas, and responding truthfully and appropriately. This is the singular best example of openness mixed with conviction I have ever seen, and I am proud to be associated with the Christian tradition which ACU represents. Read the full details on the visit here.
2 comments:
I was so encouraged by what I read about their visit. I especially loved the the way that the activists saw love from Christians for the first time (well I loved that they saw it, but I hate that they don't expect to see it). I pray that more of us can show love to people with different beliefs.
"Stunned wonder" is an excellent description, and yet, telling about my skepticism of God and His ability to engage the world through His people. I hope more Christians can see and follow this kind of example of bold faith that is willing (in fact, seeking) to engage those who are "missing" from the Kingdom.
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