I’ve been “abused” by several for my comments on the supreme court decision regarding Westboro Baptist as well as for my comments about how people have responded by calling them names while sharing about how they are not showing God’s love. I am expecting the same amount of support and “abuse” from this post, but I think there is something that Westboro Baptist has done that we should be thankful.
As those who died serving our country came home and families said goodbye, it was the typical service of family and friends. When Westboro Baptist began gaining press and notoriety, people started coming out in opposition to them, supporting these families. The support the families receive from so many that they do not know is heartwarming and an encouragement to the family during the difficult time they are facing.
Many say that they support the military and their families, but how many actually do something about it? Westboro Baptist has raised awareness of these soldiers coming home having given their all to serve our country and instead of a roadway that is empty, they now have people standing along the side of the road holding U.S. flags honoring the soldier. Westboro Baptist has caused people to put action to their words and for that we should be thankful, yet at the same time, it is sad that it took their actions to get people to “put their feet to the pavement” and show that love and support.
One of my favorite verses is 1 John 3:18 which reads, “My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.” (KJV) Now, while I do not like referencing another version to prove a point, I think that the New Living Translation says it so plainly, “Dear children, let us stop just saying we love each other; let us really show it by our actions.”
What does it take for you to live out your faith and show God’s love to others with your actions?
So people supporting our troops is worth Jesus looking like a Jerk?
I am not condoning the actions of Westboro Baptist, just that their actions caused others to take a stand and take action on their beliefs. My point was that as followers of Jesus, we should not need something like this for us to show others love. It should be natural, proactive. Like the old song, recently redone, says, “they will know we are Christians by our love”, not our words, but our actions showing God’s love in us.
I hope that clears it up, and thank you for taking the time to comment.
That makes more sense. I am pretty sure Jesus no likey Westboro Baptist Church.
what a risky title!
If I hadn’t read your earlier post, I’d be likely to be annoyed.
What Satan intends for evil, God is fully able to use for good.
Let us continue speaking out against those who misrepresent Jesus and looking for ways to put our faith into action.
Evil prospers when good does nothing.
Hey Jeremy, yes it was a risky title. God uses different things to move people to action from their complacency.
We must stand firm for the one True God and not become complacent in living out our faith. (and I learned that I need to always add the disclaimer that I do not condone what WBC is doing).
Thanks for your thoughts Jeremy.