Cause for Prayer

Tonight will see the election of a new moderator for my denomination. Presbyterians face many of the same problems others face. Perhaps the largest cause for concern and prayer is the effort by some to abandon the basics of our beliefs and re-invent ourselves into a more "evolved" church.

My Pastor is standing for election as Moderator. His name is Dave McKechnie. I can tell you he is a good man committed to the Lord. We had a prayer meeting on Monday night to pray for him and the issues facing our denomination. After the meeting I had a chance to chat with him for a bit. He was facing a big week and yet he took the time to talk with me about my job search and how he could help. This is the kind of man I would like to see representing my church.

Also in the forefront are those who want to make changes in the ordination policy. Even the other two candidates for moderator are putting this forth. One has even stated he welcomes the removal of the requirement which prohibits unrepentant homosexuals from serving in church office. Currently there are certain requirements in place for those who hold church office. They are clearly stated in the Book of Order:

G-6.0106 Gifts and Requirements

G-6.0106a. To those called to exercise special functions in the church--deacons, elders, and ministers of the Word and Sacrament--God gives suitable gifts for their various duties. In addition to possessing the necessary gifts and abilities, natural and acquired, those who undertake particular ministries should be persons of strong faith, dedicated discipleship, and love of Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. Their manner of life should be a demonstration of the Christian gospel in the church and in the world. They must have the approval of God's people and the concurring judgment of a governing body of the church.

G-6.0106b. Those who are called to office in the church are to lead a life in obedience to Scripture and in conformity to the historic confessional standards of the church. Among these standards is the requirement to live either in fidelity within the covenant of marriage between a man and a woman (W-4.9001), or chastity in singleness. Persons refusing to repent of any self-acknowledged practice which the confessions call sin shall not be ordained and/or installed as deacons, elders, or ministers of the Word and Sacrament.

Why homosexuals would seek to find acceptance in their sin I find confusing. Other sinners do not find approval of their sins. Certainly a adulterer or embezzler will not find approval either. I have given this issue a lot of thought and I have finally reached a conclusion. I think the "homosexual agenda" is an effort to force others to accept them as they are. I believe they want this as they still feel uncomfortable themselves and are under the assumption if everybody else accepts them they will finally feel at ease. This of course is not true.

I have spent five years volunteering with a hospice for aids patients. I see the sadness in their eyes. I try to show Jesus' love so that they may know the peace of forgiveness. So often they are greeted with hostility by those who call themselves Christian. It seems that many are on opposite ends within the church. Either accepting of everything, or rejecting of all. Love the sinner, but don't condone the sin. Be glad to have anyone come into church seeking to know God better. Keep to the requirements for those in leadership.

Please join me in prayer that we can come together in love and work to address the needs both inside and outside the church.