chris aho (rev. dr. christopher r aho)

I’m not sure about your Facebook Newsfeed, but mine has been interesting this weekend.
(Well, there has been Football cheering as well, but that is interesting in a more localized way)

Thankfully, many of my friends and acquaintances are posting positively about the recent event surrounding conversations between Christians and Muslims, the death of and American diplomat, and propaganda from a fringe group of Christians that ignited this firestorm.

There are two commentaries that I have found helpful this week. The first is from Brian McLaren on CNN. It was posted yesterday and is worth a few minutes of your time. One of the money quotes is:

There is a better way, the way of Christ who, when reviled, did not revile in return, who when insulted, did not insult in return, and who taught his followers to love even those who define themselves as enemies.

The second is from David Burroughs and it ran Thursday on Associated Baptist Press. In this commentary, David is speaks more specifically to the Baptist family that I call home, Moderate/CBF Style, Baptists. One of David’s key quotes is:

The good news must be carried like the new generation of thoughtful diplomats. It must be carried with gentle and respectful hands that are willing to work alongside those of a different faith. We must let our acts speak for us — acts of love, charity, friendship, comfort and support.

I appreciate both of these leaders writing and calling Christians and the church to an increased level of activism for what is right and civility in the face of difficult circumstances. Today’s church needs this call. We must lead as instruments of love and peace.
Thank you David and Brian, for encouraging us to do so.