November 16, 2007

A little over one month ago I spoke at a city council meeting regarding my conflicted feelings about whether or not a nativity scene should be allowed to be placed on the central plaza in Sonoma. This past week the council voted against drafting a policy that would allow such expressions of free speech.

I’m sorry. Part of my reservations had to do with the type of expression that might show up on the plaza: Protest or promotion of beliefs and lifestyle I find repulsive. These same concerns were expressed at successive council meetings and in letters to the newspaper editor.

This community dialogue has reminded me of the power of majority. It appears that in part of this conversation the majority chose to silence themselves so that they would then have the right to silence others. It appears that the primary concern that dominated people’s comments was the distress having religious displays would bring to the valley.

On the other hand, it was likely a very generous gesture on the part of the Christian community to not demand the right of free speech. I didn’t sign the last letter that outlined a number of reservations shared by local clergy. My problem is that I’m too often silent.

I don’t need encouragement to keep quiet. I’m that way by nature. I want to speak the truth in love. I want to speak up about my Creator God, even if I risk being thought a fool. I want to praise and rejoice and comfort. I want to use my freedom to do so wisely.

“But we are meant to speak the truth in love, and to grow up in every way into Christ, the head.” Ephesians 4:15

Rejoicing in hope,
Pastor Steve