Tomorrow Californians will have the chance to defeat Proposition 8, which would attempt to remove the recently won right of all persons to marry whom they choose-- even if they are of the same sex. There are ample, secular reasons to defeat this cruel and unjust proposition. But I want to speak from a theological point of view about why this proposition is a Sin, and must be defeated.
I am a Protestant Christian. We recognize two sacraments: Baptism and Communion. Catholics add several more to that list, including the sacrament of Marriage.
A sacrament is "an outward and visible sign of an inward and spiritual grace". It is also a means of grace, meaning that if entered into reverently and with faith, a sacrament has the power to bring us closer to God.
Even though I am not a Catholic, I can attest that marriage is a sacrament. I have been married to my husband Jim for 27 years. Without a doubt, more than any other relationship in my life, knowing Jim has been a means grace for me. Through the love of my husband, I have learned about love, forgiveness, joy, kindness, and all the other fruits of the spirit that signal the presence of God among us.
There are those who want to prohibit marriage as a means of grace to persons in same sex unions. That would be a sin. Jesus had strong words of condemnation for people who attempted to place a barrier between sincere people and God. Remember when Jesus took time to talk with little children? The religious and pious types criticized him because children were seen as second class citizens and unworthy of spiritual teaching. But Jesus told them in no uncertain terms, that it would be better to die than to hinder the children from heaven. I am certain that Jesus would say the same thing to the Yes on 8 people today. Better you should tie a millstone around your neck than vote yes on 8.
So don't be a hindrance to grace. Californians Vote NO on Proposition 8.
I have been staying out of electoral politics but had to say Brava! to this. I oversimplify but, it's love between consenting adults. How can that be wrong?
Posted by: kitchenMage | November 03, 2008 at 05:07 PM
I just wish I could vote on it! I'll be crossing my fingers that this is defeated.
Posted by: Kalyn | November 03, 2008 at 09:40 PM