This past weekend our community, like many other small communities, had its annual festival. Ours is called the Apple Butter Festival (and I bet you can’t guess why). 🙂 The church had a booth for the second year and we handed out free water, cookies, and goodies. We had balloons but the helium and the weather was not kind or cooperative so our green balloons looked more Fruit of the Loom grapes. I ended up hanging them from the canopy. At certain times on Saturday is looked like wall-to-wall people. Our booth was just one of many, and certainly not the only church. We found ourselves between exotic candle makers and the Masons, and our back door neighbors were the Pentecostals. One of our ladies makes and sells her own tamales. Yeah, I ate some. 🙂 Booths of all sorts. Clotches. Trinkets. Food (of course). Spencer Pride (gay group). You name it, it was probably there.
Part of any festival is a parade and ours is no different. Ours was like 3 hours long. Okay, so that is an exaggeration, but it seemed to go on forever. But then someone reminded me it was a political year. I mean…how could I forget with the roadways and lawns littered with garbage political signs? I say all that because it was during the parade that something happened. Now remember I said all types of groups were there. One particular group was marching in the parade and while I don’t agree with this group’s organization, it’s beliefs and practices, I find what happened to be horribly distasteful. Rude. While this group’s young men were walking by, a lady began to scream at them about being devil worshipers and basically the spawn of Satan. Like I said, I will reserve my comments about this group, but that was just downright uncalled for!! Oh, and to make matters worse, she was from some church (but I have no clue which one). Talk about a black mark on the church!
I just don’t get it. I know people have convictions, but is insulting and criticizing and black-balling and calling names and saying someone is from and worships the devil the way to get the message of Jesus across? I think not. As has been said by many before, and even by me, Jesus’ harshest words were used on the religious hypocrites/leaders. Not once do you read of the prostitutes, tax collectors, etc being called out in harsh words. “Go and sin no more” maybe. But certainly not devil worshipers.
I’m going to close because this type of thing makes my blood boil. I was mortified when I read it in the editorial. I was embarrassed because God’s Name was dragged down to the ground. But I would like to know your thoughts. Am I wrong? Feel free to say so.
No, I don’t believe so. I was going to say a bit more, but I don’t think much else is required.
Thanks for your thoughts Daniel.
Man, I hate to hear about that woman’s comments. Obviously it’s sad that there are people who are missing out on Jesus and have chosen to reject Him and His goodness. I’d say it’s probably equally as said when His followers forget about His love and drive people away from Him with unnecessary comments like that.
You put it exactly right Stephen. People missing out but some of His followers are also missing it.
The woman was a true picture of her flesh screaming. It was a rude act that did not draw anyone closer to the Lord.
Absolutely Betty.
Hi Bill,
I’m thinking that your talking about a gay group of people in the parade. I am thinking that a spirit of darkness is definitely involved in homosexuality. We know that if these people had the light and power of God they would not be acting out sexual perversion.
The parade setting was certainly not right, and the words were unreasonable by this woman because many of these people have no idea who or what is behind their dilemna. They just know that they are being mercilessly led around by their own lusts.
They believe that this means that they were ‘born’ this way, because that’s what the world tells them in order to justify and comfort them.
We also know that if these people had lived in the nation and days of Israel before Christ came they would have been killed if exposed.
There are some very strong spirits of darkness at work in various ways in our culture and nation. The world has largely accepted these dark spirits as being the ‘norm’.
Are these people the spawn of the devil? I wouldn’t go that far. They are however under the power of the devil and the Bible says that the whole world is under the devil’s power. Gay and non-gay.
Gayness is just one more evidence of the work of these powerful spirits of darkness being accepted in North America. This is an area where these dark spirits are gaining ground in people’s lives. There are many other areas in people living in and loving the world.
All that for this Linda: it was not a gay group. I allowed your comment so I could clarify.
Hi Bill,
I think gay people are many times more innocent than other groups. It seems the higher up you go in some groups the more devilish the knowledge of its practices.
As Believers we need to be so, so grateful that the deeper we go with God the more righteousness, goodness, godliness and holiness we experience with Him. Praise God!!
I think there is a lot going on in some groups that we don’t know. While Spencer Pride (radical arm of local PFlag) had a booth, these young men were not gay.
I don’t think you are wrong to have your blood boil. I do think that “Rude” is far too mild to describe the ladies action. It sounds a lot more like “Hate”
I imagine your blood boiled because she identified herself as a Christian (I don’t think any other religion gets into the Devil and Hell concept of eternal torture for the wicked.)
While she has been led to believe, by her Biblical interpretations, that God is on her side and what she was doing was very much what God is telling her to do.I tend to think her hate is because of her Christian beliefs and not in spite of them. I would imagine she could quote scripture after scripture to support her actions and beliefs.
She has just been taught it a little different than you and others.
The Bible has been used to justify hatred for hundreds of years.
Why should little old Spencer be immune to it?
I used the word “rude” because I didn’t know what else to call it. “hate” seems strong but then again, her demeanor as given in the letter to the editor suggests that. And yep, little old Spencer is not immune.
Yeah, Jesus was extremely rude toward sinners. Way to be more like Jesus. What’s sad is that there are some people who would have applauded for standing up for Christ.
I have no idea if she stood alone in this or not Larry. I would not have been one applauding.
Jesus reserved that kind of talk (devil talk) for one of his own, when he told him, “Get behind me Satan”.
We need to be kind and patient with people.
That is a black mark against the church. Shame on that person.
Totally agree Steve. Love the reference to jesus and Peter.
I’ve found that people who derogatory shout things from the safety of a crowd are usually cowards or simply need to spend more time examining their own hearts. The blatant sins are the easiest to condemn…what about the ones we try to “manage” instead of repenting and getting our own hearts right? Well, enough of a rant…
Maybe it’s because I just hate parades… 😉
What a great thought Jay! Cowardice in numbers. Secret: I’m with you on the parades. 😉
No-you aren’t wrong. It seems we live in a culture where the majority of folks have difficulty keeping their negative thoughts about something/someone to themselves. It’s terrible.
I agree and especially being so vocal with an audience.
There is power in our words.
Healing words that push people toward God. OR
Hateful words that criticize, judge, and divide.
Thing is, Jesus walked, ate, hung out with prostitutes and “disreputable sinners”. Right there in broad daylight. What makes us think He would hang out with us in our church today? Jesus wasn’t a fan of self-righteousness.
He’s here for the sick. Not the healthy.
A Christ follower doesn’t have to agree with the sin of being gay, a porn watcher, prideful, stripper, gossiper, liar, or adulterer – but a Christ follower is supposed to lovingly point people towards the Answer.
Judging & yelling won’t cut it though. (sigh)
Well said Craig and some good words. I concur with the sigh.
Totally. Agree. About. Obnoxious. Group
where. did. you. learn. to. do. that? Well said Susan and sure you can relate.
Agree 100%, Bill. The love of Christ was for the “sick,” which we all are. The ones of us who know we’re sick, are generally the ones who know Christ, His grace, and forgiveness.
I too hate society imploding around us, but hating our enemies is our flesh being used to further the implosion.
Good point Floyd. Many are being duped into being the pawn of the enemy.
There is a truck in our neighborhood that has a bumper sticker that reads “Lord protect me from your followers”.
It makes me sad for him but even more so it makes me sad and angry that people who claim to be speaking for Christ speak to people in this manner. It makes our jobs so much more difficult.
Blood is boiling!
I’ve seen that sticker also. We can overflow together on this one.
Yeah, and when He said “go and sin no more” it was after he had healed, forgiven, or shown some kindness. Not after yelling at them for not measuring up… What I don’t understand is why anyone thinks yelling and name-calling is going to change anyone else’s heart? I mean, would that work for you or me? Certainly not, just makes me defensive and angry. True and lasting change comes through grace and He administers grace through His people (well, yielded people). Sad but good post, Bill. Thanks.
Defensive and angry myself. I am trying to figure out the proper response for the paper without seemingly approving of the organization. i am so thankful for grace also Jason.
I think it’s right to be embarrassed, but I think expressing that embarrassment has to be done carefully. If done too publicly, especially in front of the wrong people, it may come across as approving of the group she was being rude towards – rather than merely critical of the harsh way in which she expressed her view. Just my two cents.
I will be aware of that and try to express it that way Loren. Wise advice though. Thanks.
Right there with you, big brother. Kind of reminds me of the “why are you pointing out a speck in your brother’s eye…” passage.
Over here, it’s a political year as well – only it’s parliament elections, not presidential. But every election is the same – instead of lying (because everyone knows the truth about their promises) about how good they will be for the country, they pour dirt on their opponents. And seriously – I am a voter, I never missed an election (mainly because it gives me the right to complain later if my candidate isn’t chosen – haha), but this year I honestly don’t know what to do. The two normal people are in prison (long story). The thugs are out there. Aaaaanyway.
Back to your question – I’m currently taking a class on God’s Mission and the Church and we’ve been discussing… well, the mission of Christians. And it comes up all the time – “non-church people are watching. like hawks. whatever you do is observed and noted.” Huge responsibility and when you start yelling stuff like that lady in your story… well, I wouldn’t want to be a Christian if that was all I knew…
I am so tired of the political garbage here Zee. It is a presidential year so the truck comes out and is dumped in our laps every stinking day. I totally agree with your assessment of the lady.
I’m not understanding why you haven’t posted what group of young me you are referring to. I was walking with the wonderful group of young men when this incident occurred.. I was the one that most of her word were pointed to. Thank God most of the boys did not hear her unkind words. On the other hand I can’t imagine someone not supporting the LE Huffman DeMolay a local group that opens a Bible on its alter everytime they meet and teach young men to love and honor thier mother and father. I am proud to say I am the Chapter Advisor of LE Huffman DeMolay and any adult is welcome to come and visit our Chapter and see what we are doing for the community. I believe sometimes people are misimformed about groups that they don’t understand. Feel free to contact me anytime
Stan Frank
812-821-2121
I chose not to for several reasons Stan. For one, I was not making a judgment on the Demolay but on the woman shouting her garbage. (I believe even Suzanne misunderstood that in her FB response to my letter to the editor). Second, there are too many who read this who may have adverse opinions on the “rightness” and “wrongness” of Demolay and its “parents.” That was not my purpose either. I do thank you for taking the time to write me and make a comment.
My son was one of the young men that was with the L.E Huffman Chapter of DeMolay.I have alot of respect for the chapter and the men that help,they service a higher calling, we have freedom and that is my right,you should come and see for yourself, I feel that i am very close to god, and that Jesus has lead me to him. And part of that path is with DeMolay, It does give us freedom to get to the same place. Please don’t take this freedom away to.One day we may need the lodge and the people in it to help with the teaching of the bible, their are people who don’t understand it and get lost, they do bring an understanding to light. How can you fight a battle that you don’t understand? It teaches more right than wrong. I speak though Jesus to God. History can teach alot and give us understanding to love each other better.
Thanks kelly for taking the time to respond. I am not trying to take away any right to meet. My response was to the lady shouting on the street. I reckon I wonder how anyone could have thought any differently.
feasibility of coexistence, isn’t that what we are doing right know?
I thank-you for your outlook and writing about these kind of things, maybe this is what god want us to do…
I have continually said that it does a disservice to unbelievers when they hear a “believer” shouting rude things in the “name of God”….this is why I believe some people say they don’t want to be a christian because so & so is & they say this & that. If we want to bring people to God, just showing respect & decency might stand out big time in this day & age, especially now with all the political bashing going on. Sad.
It is sad jan and that was my point in the letter to the editor.
DeMolay is an organization for young men between the ages of 12-21 who are taught the tenants of Love of Parents, Reverence, Courtesy, Comradeship, Fidelity, Cleanliness and Patriotism. They open their meetings with a prayer and end with another prayer that asks for Gods blessings for their Father, their Mother and their Country’s Welfare.
Thanks for your note Patrick. Appreciate you taking the time to comment.
Mr. Grandi,
I just wanted to take a moment now, since I had just now come back to read the blog since the publishing of out letters- and say that yes, you are right. I did initially misunderstand your letter because at first, and second look I thought it was aimed more at me for writing the letter than at the woman that did the shouting at the boys. After many conversations over the span of that day- I was lead to reread the letter, as well as the blog and I did also say on facebook that I felt like I had misjudged the letter. I do send my apologies for that, and thank you for standing up against this type of behavior.